Anaphylaxis – Diagnosis and Treatment

Diagnosis

Doctors look for signs like hives, swelling, coughing, wheezing, dizziness, low blood pressure, trouble breathing, fainting, or loss of consciousness.

They usually ask about past allergic reactions to foods, medicines, insect stings, or latex.

Doctors may use these tests:

• Blood tests for raised tryptase levels, which can show severe allergic reactions.
• Skin tests or blood tests for allergens.

Doctors mainly rely on clinical findings to make a diagnosis. They also rule out other conditions that can look like anaphylaxis.

Treatment

Immediate Actions for Severe Allergic Reactions

If someone has a severe allergic reaction, act quickly. Watch for symptoms like pale skin, a fast or weak pulse, trouble breathing, confusion, or fainting.

Take these steps:

• Call emergency services (911) right away.
• Give an epinephrine autoinjector into the outer thigh if available.
• Have the person lie flat and raise their legs.
• Check for a pulse and breathing. Give CPR if needed.
• Provide oxygen and use emergency equipment if you are trained.

Emergency help is still needed, even after using the autoinjector, because symptoms can return.

Using an Epinephrine Injection Device

People at risk for anaphylaxis often carry an autoinjector. This device gives a single dose of epinephrine.

To use it, press the device firmly against the thigh, even over clothes. Wait for a click, and hold it in place for a few seconds.

Key Reminders:

• Always check the expiration date. Expired epinephrine may not work.
• Learn to use the autoinjector before an emergency happens.
• Tell family, friends, or caregivers where you keep your autoinjector and how to use it.

Doctors may also give other emergency medicines, such as antihistamines or bronchodilators.

In the hospital, doctors might give corticosteroids or intravenous antihistamines to help control symptoms.

Ongoing Management and Prevention

After an emergency, talk with your healthcare provider about preventing future episodes.

This may include:

• Avoiding known triggers like certain foods or insect stings.
• Carrying an epinephrine autoinjector at all times.
• Immunotherapy (allergy shots) for reactions to stings.
• Reviewing a personal action plan for emergencies.

Doctors sometimes recommend other medicines, including steroids, to help manage symptoms.

Regular medical checkups and keeping emergency equipment ready can help prevent another allergic reaction.

Coping and Finding Support

Severe allergies and the risk of anaphylaxis can cause stress for individuals and their families.

Work with a healthcare provider to create a clear, written emergency plan. This plan lists steps to follow if a reaction happens due to allergens like peanuts, shellfish, latex, insect stings, or after vaccines.

Tips to help manage daily life include:

• Share the emergency plan with anyone caring for the person, such as teachers, babysitters, or coaches.
• Keep current autoinjectors at school and other important places.
• Ask teachers and nurses how they handle food allergies, asthma, or other triggers.

Common Triggers	Precautions to Take
Peanuts, shellfish, latex	Read labels and avoid exposure.
Insect stings	Wear protective clothing.
Exercise-induced reactions	Communicate needs beforehand.
Vaccines	Follow post-shot observation.