Chapter 4 medical terminology: Allergies, Skin Conditions, and Medical Terminology
Allergic Reactions and Skin Conditions
Allergic Responses
- Common Allergens: Shellfish, oranges, bananas, cheese (often due to casein aiding fermentation), milk, bee stings, insect stings, and certain medications like penicillin.
- Hives (H E A L): A singular outbreak or bump due to an allergic reaction.
- Urticaria: A condition characterized by multiple outbreaks of hives or bumps.
- Anaphylaxis: A severe, potentially life-threatening allergic reaction.
- EpiPen (Epinephrine Auto-Injector): A crucial, lifesaving device for anaphylactic reactions.
- Function: Administers epinephrine to counteract severe allergic symptoms.
- Time-Buying: Buys approximately 30 minutes of time, but immediate emergency room (ER) visit is still necessary.
- Availability: Often expensive, usually provided in a pack of two; individuals with allergies should carry one.
- Training: Not only the allergic individual but also close contacts should know how to use an EpiPen.
- Peanut Allergy: A prevalent and significant allergy in the country.
- Popcorn and Anaphylaxis: Chemicals in microwave popcorn bags can cause anaphylactic reactions in some individuals.
- Recommendation: To avoid these chemicals, use organic kernels in an air popper bowl for office consumption.
- Cross-Reactivity: The body may mistakenly identify proteins from certain substances as allergens if they are structurally similar to known allergens.
- Example: Allergies to bananas, pineapple, or kiwi may indicate a significantly higher likelihood of a latex allergy.
- Significance: Always take reported allergies seriously; never test a person's allergies by introducing the substance into their food.
Respiratory Allergies and Emergencies
- Rescue Inhalers (Emergency Rescue Inhalers): Used to alleviate symptoms during an asthma attack.
- Brands: Examples include Proventil, Ventolin, ProAir, and over-the-counter options like Primatene Mist.
- Importance: Must be carried by individuals diagnosed with asthma, not left at home, as asthma attacks can rapidly escalate and become fatal.
Skin Conditions: Terminology and Diagnosis
- Blister / Vesicle: A small fluid-filled sac on the skin.
- Associated Conditions: Seen in conditions like chickenpox, shingles, and impetigo.
- Bruise / Contusion: Discoloration of the skin resulting from bleeding underneath.
- Medical Documentation: The importance of accurate and detailed documentation of bruises in patient notes.
- Implication: Bruises in different stages of healing can indicate an unsafe situation for the patient, providing a larger picture of potential abuse or neglect.
- Scar / Cicatrix: Fibrous tissue that forms after a skin injury has healed.