Anaphylaxis
Alternative names:
anaphylactic reaction; anaphylactic shock; shock - anaphylactic
Treatment:
Anaphylaxis is an emergency condition requiring immediate
professional medical attention. CPR
and other lifesaving measures may be required. This may include
placing a tube through the nose or mouth into the airway (endotracheal
intubation) or emergency surgery to place a tube directly
into the trachea (tracheostomy).
Epinephrine is given by injection and/or inhalation. This
opens the airways and raises the blood
pressure by constricting blood vessels.
Treatment for shock includes
intravenous fluids and
medications that support the actions of the heart and circulatory
system.
Antihistamines such
as diphenhydramine
may be given to further reduce symptoms (after lifesaving
measures and epinephrine are administered).
Expectations (prognosis):
Anaphylaxis is a severe disorder with a guarded prognosis
(expected outcome). Symptoms may resolve with prompt treatment.
However, death may occur even with treatment.
Complications:
Calling your health care provider:
Go to the emergency room or call the local emergency number
(such as 911) if any symptoms of anaphylaxis develop!
Update Date: 02/09/00
Updated by: J. Gordon Lambert, MD, Associate Medical Director,
Utah Health Informatics and adam.com
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