Anaphylactic shock reaction
An
anaphylactic shock is an extremely severe allergic
reaction of the entire body. The reaction may occur very quickly,
within minutes. An anaphylactic shock is a dangerous reaction of
the body, which may be life-threatening. The body reacts very
strongly to an allergen. Not just in one place, for instance the
site of a wasp sting, but spread across the entire body. Such a
strong reaction may cause a substantial drop in blood pressure and
lead to loss of consciousness. Severe swelling of the pharynx, may
cause tightness of the chest. A shock reaction to a particular kind
of food may involve severe nausea, followed by vomiting and
abdominal cramps. Without rapid treatment, the pulse will begin to
race, which may lead to loss of consciousness.
It is therefore essential that the attack be treated as quickly as possible. The most common causes of anaphylactic shock are insect stings, particularly by wasps, and food ingredients (especially peanuts). Such a reaction virtually never occurs with pollen, pet or house dust mite allergies.
The symptoms of an anaphylactic shock reaction may be the same as those associated with other allergic reactions, but are generally much more severe. Symptoms that often accompany a shock reaction are laboured breathing, dizziness, arrhythmia, bright redness of the skin and vomiting.
