What are the treatment options for allergic reactions?
The following treatments are commonly used to reduce the symptoms of an allergic reaction: Antihistamines. Antihistamines can help to treat most minor allergic reactions regardless of the cause.
What to do if you have an allergic reaction first aid?
Allergic Reaction First Aid: What to Do 1 Common symptoms. The most serious allergic reactions can cause anaphylaxis. 2 What to do when someone is experiencing anaphylaxis. Call 911 immediately. 3 Poisonous plants. According to The Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia,... 4 Stinging insects. Most people will have a reaction to an insect bite,...
What is the emergency response for severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis)?
A severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) is life threatening and requires urgent action. Emergency responses for severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) are: lay the person flat – do not allow them to stand or walk administer adrenaline with an autoinjector (such as an EpiPen®)
How are allergic reactions diagnosed?
A primary care physician or an allergist can diagnose allergic reactions. If you experience symptoms of an allergic reaction, the doctor will perform an exam and ask you about your health history. If your allergic reactions are severe, they may ask you to keep a journal that details your symptoms and the substances that appear to cause them.
What treatment can be given for an allergic reaction?
Most minor allergy symptoms can be treated with antihistamines, corticosteroids, or decongestants. Saline nasal rinses can be used for congestion-related allergy symptoms. Corticosteroid creams can treat skin rashes related to allergies.
What is the first thing you should do if you suspect an allergic reaction to an infusion?
Call 911 even if you administer the injection.Treat Symptoms. For mild allergy symptoms, such as hay fever or hives, give an over-the-counter (OTC) antihistamine. ADVERTISEMENT. ... Follow Up. Watch for worsening symptoms, including signs of anaphylaxis. See Severe Allergic Reaction Treatment.
What is the first line medication used for anaphylaxis?
Epinephrine — Epinephrine is the first and most important treatment for anaphylaxis, and it should be administered as soon as anaphylaxis is recognized to prevent the progression to life-threatening symptoms as described in the rapid overviews of the emergency management of anaphylaxis in adults (table 1) and children ...
Which of the following drugs is used in the treatment of mild allergic reactions?
Antihistamines. Your doctor may prescribe an antihistamine or recommend an over-the-counter antihistamine such as diphenhydramine (Benadryl) that can block immune system chemicals activated during an allergic reaction.
What to do for a rash from allergies?
For itchy, watery eyes, use OTC allergy eye drops. For itchy allergic rash, apply cold compresses and an OTC hydrocortisone cream. 2.
What are the symptoms of an allergic reaction?
Swollen lips, tongue, or throat. Nausea, abdominal pain, or vomiting. Fast heartbeat or pulse. Anxiety or dizziness. Loss of consciousness. Other symptoms of a severe allergic reaction ( anaphylaxis) If you have severe allergies, you should keep two epinephrine injection kits with you at all times and readily available.
What is the emergency number for an allergic reaction?
A severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) is life threatening and requires urgent action. always dial triple zero (000) to call an ambulance in a medical emergency. carry a mobile phone to call for help when needed.
How to tell if you have an allergic reaction?
Symptoms of a severe allergic reaction include: difficult or noisy breathing. swelling of the tongue. swelling or tightness of the throat. difficulty talking or a hoarse voice. wheeze or persistent cough. persistent dizziness or collapse. paleness and floppiness in young children. abdominal pain and vomiting.
How to administer adrenaline with an Epipen?
administer adrenaline with an autoinjector (such as an EpiPen®) always dial triple zero (000) to call an ambulance in a medical emergency . If you are at risk of a severe allergic reaction, make sure you: have a severe allergic reaction action plan. carry a mobile phone to call for help when needed.
What to do if you have asthma?
If you, or someone you know, are having an asthma attack, follow the asthma action plan. In case of emergency, call triple zero (000) and ask for an ambulance. Tell the operator that someone is having an asthma attack. The signs of an emergency include when the person: finds it very difficult to breathe.
Can asthma be controlled with medication?
If you have asthma, your doctor will prescribe the correct medication and help you to develop a plan to manage your asthma and an action plan for asthma attacks.#N#Asthma can be well controlled with medication in most people. The main types of medication are:
Can you use an epipen for an allergic reaction?
Adrenaline works fast to reverse a severe allergic reaction and adrenaline autoinjectors (EpiPens®)are designed for use by people who are not medically trained. If you are at risk, your doctor will have prescribed an adrenaline autoinjector.
How to treat an allergic reaction?
The best way to treat and prevent allergic reactions is to know what triggers the reaction and stay away from it, especially food allergens. When this is not possible or realistic, using antihistamines or decongestants when in contact with allergens can help to treat the symptoms.
What is the best medicine for allergies?
Immunotherapy can be between 90 and 98 percent effective at reducing allergic reactions to insect stings, for instance. Prescription asthma medications, such as bronchodilators and inhaled corticosteroids. Oral cromolyn can be taken for food allergies.
What is the reaction of the immune system to a foreign substance?
An allergic reaction occurs when cells in the immune system interpret a foreign substance or allergen as harmful. The immune system overreacts to these allergens and produces histamine, which is a chemical that causes allergy symptoms, such as inflammation, sneezing, and coughing. Mild allergic reactions can usually be treated with home remedies ...
What is an epipen?
An EpiPen is designed to treat anaphylaxis, and should be used at the first sign of a severe allergc reaction. A very severe allergic reaction can lead to a condition called anaphylaxis, or anaphylactic shock. Anaphylaxis occurs when the body’s immune response to an allergen is so severe and sudden that the body goes into a state of shock.
How to reduce inflammation from insect bites?
Ice pack. Applying an ice pack wrapped in cloth to the area for 10- to 15-minute intervals can reduce inflammation.
How long can you take nasal decongestant?
However, decongestant medications should not be taken continuously for more than 72 hours. Nasal decongestants are available over the counter and online.
What is the best cream for itching?
Corticosteroids contain steroids that reduce inflammation and itching. Mild forms of these creams can be found online, and a doctor can prescribe stronger versions. Moisturizing creams. Emollient creams with soothing ingredients, such as calamine can treat skin reactions. Bite or sting medication.
What is the name of the reaction that can occur seconds after exposure to an allergen?
heart palpitations. flushing of the face. swelling of the face, eyes, or tongue. dizziness or vertigo. weakness. unconsciousness. A severe and sudden allergic reaction known as anaphylaxis can develop just seconds after exposure to an allergen.
How to avoid an allergic reaction?
avoid exposure to the allergen. seek medical care if you’re exposed to the allergen. carry medications to help treat anaphylaxis. You may not be able to avoid an allergic reaction completely, but these steps can help you prevent future allergic reactions.
What are some things that people are allergic to?
People who have allergies are typically allergic to one or more of the following: pet dander, such as the kind from a cat or dog. bee stings or bites from other insects. certain foods, including nuts and shellfish. certain medications, such as penicillin and aspirin. certain plants. pollen. mold.
What is the most valuable test for diagnosing food allergies?
injected just under the skin (intradermal test) A skin test is most valuable for diagnosing: food allergies, such as allergies to shellfish or peanuts. mold, pollen, and animal dander allergies. penicillin allergies. allergies to venom, such as the kind secreted by bees or yellow jackets.
What to do if you have anaphylaxis?
If you or someone you know experiences a severe allergic reaction, you should seek emergency medical attention. Check to see if the person is breathing, call 911 or your local emergency services, and provide CPR if needed .
What is the immune system responsible for?
Your immune system is responsible for defending the body against bacteria and viruses. In some cases, your immune system will defend against substances that typically don’t pose a threat to the human body. Some of these substances are known as allergens, and when your body reacts to them, it causes an allergic reaction.
Can a doctor inject allergens into your body?
Doctors can also use allergens to diagnose allergies and can even inject them into your body as a form of treatment. The American College of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology (ACAAI) reports that over 50 million people in the United States have some type of allergy.
What to do if you are allergic to poison ivy?
Take off makeup or earrings if they’re the cause. If you’re allergic to poison ivy, sumac or oak and have been exposed, wash clothing and other items that may have the irritant (an oily sap called urushiol) on them.
What happens when you breathe in something you're allergic to?
When you eat, breathe in or touch something you’re allergic to, your immune system produces histamines to deal with the bothersome substance (allergen). This immune response can cause several symptoms, including: Itching. A rash. Hives (large, pink bumps or swollen areas) Sneezing and watery eyes.
What is the best treatment for itching and watery eyes?
4. What’s the best way to treat itching, sneezing and watery eyes? When you have multiple allergic symptoms, an over-the-counter antihistamine such as loratadine (Claritin®) can treat them.
Is it better to call 911 or drive to the emergency department?
If the person who’s having an allergic reaction stops talking and simply stares, that’s a red flag as well. “Calling 911 is better than driving to the emergency department,” he says. “Emergency medical technicians in an ambulance have protocols and access to treatments specifically for severe allergic reactions.”. 3.
Can you be allergic to birch pollen?
Yes. It’s important to know that some allergies are linked to others. For example, if you’re allergic to latex, it’s possible that you’ll also react to avocados, kiwifruit and other tropical fruit. And if you’re allergic to birch pollen, it’s possible that you’ll react to apples or peaches as well.
What to do if someone has an allergy to an auto injector?
Follow the guidance on the packaging. 4. Reassure them and make them as comfortable as possible while you wait for the ambulance. Tell the ambulance crew if the auto-injector has been used.
Why do people stop breathing when they have an allergic reaction?
They need urgent medical assistance because an allergic reaction can affect someone very quickly , and is potentially very serious. The reaction may cause swelling of their airway, causing them to stop breathing. 3. If they have a known allergy, use their auto-injector.
What is anaphylactic shock?
Anaphylaxis (also called anaphylactic shock) is a severe allergic reaction that makes it difficult for a person to breathe. If a doctor identifies someone as being at risk of anaphylactic shock, they may give them an auto-injector. An auto-injector contains medication that helps to ease the symptoms in an emergency.
How do you know if you have an allergic reaction?
If they have a severe allergic reaction, they might also have symptoms such as swelling of their tongue or neck and difficulty breathing. Call 999 if you see these symptoms.
What happens if you give first aid?
1. The person may develop a rash, itchiness or swelling on their hands, feet or face. Their breathing may slow down. They may also vomit or have diarrhoea.
What foods cause allergic reactions?
The most common foods that can cause allergic reactions are: 1 nuts 2 shellfish 3 dairy products 4 eggs.
What to do after a sting is removed?
After the sting has been removed, apply something cold to the area (such as an ice pack) to minimise the pain and swelling. Be aware that this may not reduce the risk of an allergic reaction for someone with a severe allergy.
What to do if you have an allergic reaction?
If you're with someone having an allergic reaction with signs of anaphylaxis: Immediately call 911 or your local medical emergency number . Ask the person if he or she is carrying an epinephrine autoinjector (EpiPen, Auvi-Q, others) to treat an allergic attack.
What is anaphylaxis first aid?
Anaphylaxis: First aid - Mayo Clinic. By Mayo Clinic Staff. A life-threatening allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) can cause shock, a sudden drop in blood pressure and trouble breathing. In people who have an allergy, anaphylaxis can occur minutes after exposure to a specific allergy-causing substance (allergen).
What foods can you take with you if you are allergic to epinephrine?
Foods such as peanuts, tree nuts, fish and shellfish. Insect stings from bees, yellow jackets, wasps, hornets and fire ants. If you've had any kind of severe allergic reaction in the past, ask your doctor if you should be prescribed an epinephrine autoinjector to carry with you. March 26, 2021.
How to inject medication when someone says they need an autoinjector?
This is usually done by pressing the autoinjector against the person's thigh. Have the person lie still on his or her back. Loosen tight clothing and cover the person with a blanket.
What are the symptoms of anaphylaxis?
Signs and symptoms of anaphylaxis include: Skin reactions, including hives, itching, and flushed or pale skin. Constriction of the airways, leading to wheezing and trouble breathing. Some common anaphylaxis triggers include: Insect stings from bees, yellow jackets, wasps, hornets and fire ants.
Can anaphylaxis recur?
After anaphylaxis, it's possible for symptoms to recur. Monitoring in a hospital for several hours is usually necessary. If you're with someone having signs and symptoms of anaphylaxis, don't wait to see whether symptoms get better. Seek emergency treatment right away.
