Allergic reaction

                                    

Allergic reaction is hypersensitivity disorder of immune system to any outside substance called allergen. The Reaction by body’s immune system release chemicals such as histamines to combat the outside substance or stimulus. Extremely allergic reaction is called Anaphylaxis  

  Possible causes

ü Stings/bites

ü Medication (such as penicillin) 

ü Plants

ü Food (such as shellfish, peanuts and milk)

ü Chemicals such as latex

ü Genetic basis

Signs/Symptoms

ü Tightness in chest or throat

ü Wheezing (whistling sound from airway)

ü Urticarial (hives)

ü BP down (vessels are dilating)

ü Pulse rate up (initially compensating)

ü Swelling of face, neck, tongue, lips, hands/feet

ü Anxiety and sense of impending doom

ü Itchy, watery and redness eyes

Treatment 

ü Remove toxin (determine method of entry skin, inhalation, sting) 

ü IV Epinephrine is necessary Constricts blood vessels  raises BP and pulse Inhibits allergic reaction

ü Oxygen support

ü Monitor vital signs and shock

ü Methylprednisolone and Ranitidine can be used as supplemental drugs

Prevention 

ü Avoid substances that cause an allergic reaction.

ü The consumption of various foods during pregnancy has been linked to eczema; these include celery, citrus fruit, raw pepper, margarine, and vegetable oil

ü A high intake of antioxidants, zinc, and selenium during pregnancy may help prevent allergies. This is linked to a reduced risk for childhood-onset asthma, wheezing, and eczema

ü Further research needs to be conducted. Probiotic supplements taken during pregnancy or infancy may help to prevent atopic dermatitis