What is 'Anaphylaxis' ?

Anaphylaxis (anna - fill -axis) is a severe allergic reaction that can be life-threatening. Food is the most common cause of anaphylaxis in children, but insect stings, medicine, latex or exercise can also cause a reaction.

Angioedema in a patient suffering from anaphylaxis

Anaphylaxis affects many parts of the body: the skin, the respiratory tract, gastro-intestinal organs and the cardiovascular system. In an explosive overreaction of the immune system, anaphylactic shock is characterised by
swelling, difficulty breathing, abdominal cramps, vomiting, diarrhoea, circulatory collapse, coma and death.

Anaphylaxis can occur almost immediately after ingestion of the allergen, or it may be delayed up to a few hours. Initially, its symptoms can be deceptively mild. However, once begun, it progresses rapidly, with the child becoming upset, often fearful and red in the face. They may also develop a rapid heartbeat, swelling of the face and lips (angioedema), prickly and itchy skin, sneezing, coughing and breathing difficulties. Left untreated, the child may go into a state of shock, where blood pressure drops, skin becomes cold and clammy and a faint feeling occurs. The development of anaphylaxis usually responds to adrenaline administration.

Treating anaphylaxis

Children with serious peanut (or other) allergies may be prescribed pre-loaded adrenaline (epinephrine) injection kits. These kits are self-injecting needles that are designed to be administered as soon as a serious reaction is suspected.

The adrenaline contained in these kits acts quickly to constrict blood vessels, relax the muscles in the lungs to improve breathing, stimulate the heart rate and help to stop swelling around the face and lips. Although no substitute for immediate medical attention, these kits are a lifesaver that no one with a serious allergy should leave home without.

[top]