Anaphylaxis
Anaphylaxis
Anaphylaxis (pronounced: /ˌænəfəˈlæksɪs/) is a severe, potentially life-threatening allergic reaction. It can occur within seconds or minutes of exposure to something you're allergic to, such as a peanut or the venom from a bee sting.
Etymology
The term "anaphylaxis" comes from the Greek words "ana," meaning against, and "phylaxis," meaning protection. It was first used in 1902 by French physiologist Charles Richet to describe the unexpected adverse reaction of dogs vaccinated against sea anemone toxin.
Symptoms
The symptoms of anaphylaxis can vary. In some people, the reaction begins very slowly, but in most the symptoms appear rapidly and abruptly. The most severe and life-threatening symptoms are difficulty breathing and loss of consciousness.
Causes
Anaphylaxis is caused by the immune system. The immune system is your body's natural defense system. In most people, the immune system is able to distinguish between harmful substances and harmless ones. But in people with anaphylaxis, the immune system overreacts to harmless substances.
Related Terms
- Allergy: A condition in which the immune system reacts abnormally to a foreign substance.
- Epinephrine: A medication used to treat severe allergic reactions including anaphylaxis.
- Immunoglobulin E (IgE): A type of antibody that is associated with allergic reactions.
- Histamine: A compound that is released by cells in response to injury and in allergic and inflammatory reactions.
Treatment
The first and most important treatment for anaphylaxis is epinephrine. This is a medication that can reverse the severe symptoms of anaphylaxis. After treatment with epinephrine, you should go to an emergency room immediately, even if the symptoms seem to have gone away.
Prevention
The best way to prevent anaphylaxis is to avoid the substance that causes the reaction. If this is not possible, there are medications that can reduce the severity of the reaction.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Anaphylaxis
- Wikipedia's article - Anaphylaxis
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