Allergic Reaction/ Anphylaxis

Describe allergic reactions

Mild symptoms in reaction to an allergen, e.g. localised urticaria, runny nose,

• triggers include food, drugs, venom

Describe anaphylaxis and how it can develop

• Severe life threatening generalised or systematic hypersensitivity reaction

• Rapidly developing life-threatening airway/breathing/circulation problems

• How develops?

  • First exposure to allergen, body creates antibodies

  • Next time exposed, body recognises/responds quicker

  • Disproportionate immune response (histamine and WBCs)

  • Histamine gives symptoms

    • Bronchospasm and vasodilation (anaphylaxis symptoms)

What are some symptoms of anaphylaxis?

• Hypotension

• Swelling of tissues (BP crashes causes fluid to leak into tissues from blood)

• DIB wheezing due to bronchospasm

• Hypoxia (confusion)

• Tachypnoea and Tachycardia

• Nausea and vomiting

• Sweating

• Diarrhoea

• Decreased cardiac output (low BP)

How can allergens enter the body?

• Injection

• Ingestion

• Absorption (skin contact)

• Inhalation

What could be a presentation of early anaphylaxis?

• Itchy rash

• Swelling around eyes

• Prickly lips

• Dry non-productive cough

• Restlessness

What could be a presentation of acute anaphylaxis?

• Flushed skin

• Tachycardia

• Chest tightness

• Tongue and throat swelling

• Wheeze

• Hoarseness

• Dyspnoea

• Strider

• Cyanosis

• Vomiting

• Diarrhoea

How would you treat anaphylaxis?

• Oxygen 15l using non-rebreather (continued until vital signs normal)

• Paramedic intervention:

  • Salbutamol and Adrenaline

  • Advanced airway

  • IV fluids

• If time for hotel backup is too long, consider rapid transport if have EMT

• Continually monitor and pre-alert to hospital