What?
A life threatening allergic reaction. Which has a sudden onset, and rapid progression of symptoms.
Signs:
- Flushing
- Angioedema
- Urticaria
- Shortness of breath
- Wheeze
- Chest tightness
- Respiratory arrest
- Tachycardia
- Bradycardia
Triggers:
- Food products such as peanuts and milk
- Medications such as antibiotics
- Insect stings
- Latex
- Exercise
Risk Factors:
- Allergies
- Asthma
- Atopic dermatitis
- CVD
- Previous anaphylactic shocks
~ Tip – Triple A = Allergies, Asthma, Atopic dermatitis
Treatment:
In adults and children over the age of 12
- Adrenaline given intramuscularly – Dosage = 0.5ml of 1 in 1000 (500mcg)
- After 5 minutes if there is no change/response to medication administer another dose of IM adrenaline.
- Adrenaline injections should be used on the thighs of the patient
Why is adrenaline useful in an anaphylactic attack?
- Prevents and relieves airway obstruction from mucosal oedema
- Powerful inotropic and chronotropic effects relieve hypotension and shock
- Relieves broncoconstriction
