3M-B

Allergic rhinitis

Inflammation of the mucous membranes of the nose, eyes, eustachian tubes, middle ear, sinuses, and pharynx

Seasonal allergic rhinitis

An immunoglobulin (Ig)E-mediated type I hypersensitivity response to an environmental antigen (allergens such as mold spores or pollens) in a genetically susceptible person that's episodic in nature; also known as intermittent allergic rhinitis

Perennial allergic rhinitis

Inhaled allergens (usually indoor allergens such as dust mites, pet hair or dander, or mold) that produce signs and symptoms for more than 9 months of the year; also known as persistent allergic rhinitis

Type I hypersensitivity reaction

When mast cells in the nasal mucosa are first exposed to inhaled antigens, circulating B lymphocytes react to the invading organisms to produce immunoglobulin E (IgE) antibody molecules, which bind to the surface membranes of the mast cells. This process sensitizes mast cells to the effects of inhaled antigens.

Mast cells

Cells in the nasal mucosa that release histamine and other chemical mediators when exposed to inhaled pollens or other antigens, leading to the characteristic symptoms of allergic rhinitis.

Histamine

A chemical mediator released by mast cells that acts on the nasal mucosa to produce characteristic symptoms of allergic rhinitis.

Allergens

Substances such as pollen, mold spores, dust mites, pet hair or dander, and industrial chemicals that trigger an immune response in individuals with allergic rhinitis.

IgE

Immunoglobulin E, an antibody produced by B lymphocytes in response to allergens, which binds to mast cells and sensitizes them to the effects of inhaled antigens.

Eosinophils

A type of white blood cell that is elevated in sputum and nasal secretions of individuals with allergic rhinitis.

Nasal polyps

Abnormal growths in the nasal cavity that can occur as a complication of allergic rhinitis.

Sinusitis

Inflammation of the sinuses that can occur as a complication of allergic rhinitis.

Airway hyperreactivity

Increased sensitivity and reactivity of the airways, which can lead to asthma symptoms in individuals with allergic rhinitis.

Radioallergosorbent test

A diagnostic blood test used to identify specific allergens by measuring the levels of allergen-specific antibodies in the blood.

Environmental antigens

Substances in the environment that can trigger an allergic reaction.

Nonspecific triggers or irritants

Substances or factors that can worsen allergy symptoms but may not be specific allergens.

Symptomatic diet

A diet that focuses on managing symptoms of allergies, such as increasing fluid intake to loosen secretions and eliminating suspected food allergens.

Antihistamines

Medications that block the effects of histamine, a chemical released during an allergic reaction.

First-generation antihistamines

Older antihistamines that can cause drowsiness, such as diphenhydramine and chlorpheniramine.

Second- and third-generation antihistamines

Newer antihistamines that are less likely to cause drowsiness, such as loratadine and cetirizine.

Intranasal anticholinergic agents

Medications that help relieve nasal symptoms by reducing nasal secretions, such as ipratropium bromide.

Nasal corticosteroids

Medications that reduce inflammation in the nasal passages, such as fluticasone propionate and mometasone furoate.

Mast cell stabilizers

Medications that prevent the release of histamine from mast cells, such as cromolyn sodium.

Leukotriene antagonists

Medications that block the effects of leukotrienes, chemicals that contribute to allergic inflammation, such as montelukast and zafirlukast.

Immunotherapy

A treatment that involves gradually exposing the patient to increasing amounts of allergens to desensitize the immune system.

Respiratory hygiene measures

Practices to prevent the spread of respiratory infections, such as covering the mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing.

Desensitization agents

Medications or allergen extracts used in immunotherapy to help desensitize the immune system.

Humidifier therapy

The use of a humidifier to add moisture to the air and relieve respiratory symptoms.

Nasal aerosol drug instillation

The administration of medication in aerosol form directly into the nasal passages.

Nasal spray instillation

The administration of medication in liquid form directly into the nasal passages using a spray bottle.

Nose drop instillation

The administration of medication in liquid form directly into the nasal passages using a dropper.

Pulse oximetry

A non-invasive method of measuring the oxygen saturation of the blood.

Safe medication administration practices

Procedures and protocols

Nasal saline irrigation

A technique used to flush out the nasal passages with a saline solution to relieve congestion and remove allergens.

Topical medication

Medication applied directly to the skin or mucous membranes.

Inhalant medication

Medication inhaled into the respiratory system.

Secondary infection

An infection that occurs as a result of another underlying condition or infection.

Topical decongestants

Medications used to temporarily relieve nasal congestion, but should not be used for more than 3 days to avoid rebound congestion.

Discharge planning

The process of preparing a patient for discharge from the hospital, including assessing their understanding of the diagnosis and treatment, arranging transportation, and providing necessary information.

Formal and informal supports

The individuals or resources that can provide assistance and support to the patient, both in a professional and personal capacity.

Prescription drugs

Medications that can only be obtained with a prescription from a healthcare practitioner.

Adverse reactions

Unintended and potentially harmful effects of a medication.

Smoking cessation

The process of quitting smoking.

Medical contact information

Contact information for healthcare providers in case of emergencies or follow-up care.

Support groups or services

Organizations or programs that provide support and resources for individuals with specific conditions or needs.

Clinical record

A document that contains the patient's medical history, diagnoses, treatments, and other relevant information.

Allergy

An immune response to a substance that is normally harmless, resulting in symptoms such as sneezing, itching, and swelling.

Urticaria

A skin rash characterized by raised, itchy bumps (hives).

Respiratory distress

Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath.

Mast cells

Cells involved in the immune response that release histamine and other chemicals during an allergic reaction.

Basophils

White blood cells involved in the immune response that release histamine and other chemicals during an allergic reaction.

Histamine

A chemical released by mast cells and basophils that causes inflammation and allergic symptoms.

Leukotrienes

Chemicals released during an allergic reaction that cause inflammation and bronchoconstriction.

Prostaglandins

Chemicals released during an allergic reaction that cause inflammation and pain.

Platelet-aggregating factor

A chemical released during an allergic reaction that promotes blood clotting.

IgE

an antibody involved in allergic reactions.

IgG

an antibody involved in immune responses.

IgM

Immunoglobulin M, an antibody involved in immune responses.

Com1

Seafood that includes crustaceans and mollusks.

Milk

A white liquid produced by mammals, commonly consumed by humans.

Eggs

Oval reproductive bodies laid by female animals, commonly consumed by humans.

Penicillin

A group of antibiotics used to treat bacterial infections.

Beta-lactam antibiotics

A class of antibiotics that includes penicillin and cephalosporins.

Cephalosporins

A group of antibiotics used to treat bacterial infections.

Muscle relaxants

Medications that reduce muscle tension and spasms.

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)

Medications used to reduce pain, inflammation, and fever.

Radiographic contrast media

Substances used in medical imaging to enhance the visibility of certain structures.

Bees, wasps, yellow jackets, hornets

Insects that can sting and cause allergic reactions.

Kissing bugs

Insects that can transmit Chagas disease through their bites.

Mosquitoes

Insects that can transmit various diseases through their bites.

Latex

A natural rubber material used in many products, which can cause allergic reactions.

Idiopathic

Of unknown cause or origin.

History of allergies or asthma

A personal medical background of allergic reactions or asthma.

Family history

A medical background of allergic reactions or asthma in close relatives.

History of hereditary alpha tryptasemia

A genetic condition characterized by high levels of tryptase in the blood.

Anaphylaxis

A severe and potentially life-threatening allergic reaction.

Biphasic reactions

Allergic reactions that occur in two phases, with a second wave of symptoms occurring hours later.

Respiratory obstruction or failure

Difficulty breathing or inability to breathe properly.

Myocardial ischemia

Reduced blood flow to the heart muscle, leading to oxygen deprivation.

Brain injury

Damage to the brain caused by trauma or lack of oxygen.

Systemic vascular collapse

A sudden and severe drop in blood pressure affecting the entire body.

Cardiac arrest

Sudden cessation of the heart's pumping function.

Death Assessment

Evaluation of the cause and circumstances surrounding a person's death.

Feeling of impending doom

A strong sense of impending danger or catastrophe.

Urticaria

Hives, a skin condition characterized by raised, itchy welts.

Angioedema

Swelling of the the deeper layers of the skin, caused by a build-up of fluid.

Antihistamines

Medications used to relieve allergy symptoms, such as diphenhydrAMINE hydrochloride and cetirizine hydrochloride.

Corticosteroids

Medications, such as hydrocortisone, predniSONE, and methylPREDNISolone, used to reduce inflammation and allergic reactions.

Inhaled beta2-adrenergic agonists

Medications, such as albuterol sulfate, used to relieve bronchospasm and improve breathing.

IV fluids

typically normal saline and lactated Ringer solution, used for fluid resuscitation.

DOPamine hydrochloride

Medication used as adjunctive therapy for refractory hypotension.

Aminophylline

Medication used to treat bronchospasm and improve breathing.

Oxygen therapy

Administration of supplemental oxygen to improve oxygenation.

Patent airway

An open and unobstructed airway.

Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR)

Emergency procedure to restore breathing and circulation.

Endotracheal tube

A tube inserted into the trachea to maintain an open airway and facilitate mechanical ventilation.

Indwelling urinary catheter

A catheter inserted into the bladder to monitor urine output.

Continuous nebulization

Continuous administration of medication via a nebulizer.

Vasopressors

Medications used to increase blood pressure.

Antiembolism stockings

Stockings worn to prevent venous thromboembolism (VTE).

Tissue tolerance

The ability of tissues to withstand pressure and maintain blood flow.