WHAT IS ALLERGIC REACTION / ALLERGY

An allergic reaction occurs when your immune system overreacts to an allergen, or normally harmless substance. Animal dander, pollen, dust, medications, insect bites, and foods such as peanuts and shellfish are common allergens. Most allergic reactions are mild, but others can be severe and life threatening. Severe reactions are called anaphylaxis. Anaphylaxis is a medical emergency because a person can die without fast treatment. Emergency care includes an injection with epinephrine, an adrenalin medication.

SOME COMMON SYMPTOMS OF ALLERGIC REACTION  

Cough, Swelling, Headache, Itching or burning, Redness of eyes (bloodshot), Shortness of breath, Skin redness, Sore or burning eyes, Wheezing, Drainage or pus, Soreness or burning inside of mouth, Difficulty breathing through nose,  Pain or discomfort, Bloody or red colored stools, Hives, Nausea or vomiting, Runny nose, Skin blisters, Sneezing, tightness of throat, Puffy eyelids, Sense of impending doom, Sore tongue

DIAGNOSIS & TREATMENT

DIAGNOSIS: Your doctor will take a medical history, ask about the symptoms and timing of your allergic reactions, and do a physical exam. To determine your triggers, the doctor also may do blood tests or scratch your skin with an extract of the suspected allergen. Redness and swelling confirm that it's a trigger.

TREATMENT: Treatment for anaphylaxis may include: 

1. Epinephrine injection 

2. Oxygen 

3. Intravenous fluid

4. Antihistamines 

5. Corticosteroids 

6. Avoiding triggers in the future 

7. Immunotherapy to prevent future reactions

SELF CARE: If you have a mild allergic reaction, you can usually treat it by avoiding the trigger, taking oral antihistamines, icing the area, and using an anti-inflammatory steroid cream if you have a rash. If you have anaphylaxis, these self-care strategies may help prevent future attacks: 

• Avoid the trigger. 

• Know what to do if you are exposed to the trigger. 

• Carry epinephrine with you always if your doctor prescribes it. 

• Teach your family and friends how to deal with a reaction.