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Anaphylaxis in the School
This page was reviewed or revised on Wednesday, October 28, 2009 10:59 AM
What is Anaphylaxis?
Anaphylaxis is a severe allergic response that occurs when a person is exposed to an allergy causing substance (allergen) to which he or she has previously been sensitized.
- the allergen enters the blood stream causing the release of chemicals throughout the body that try to protect it from the foreign substance
- the immune system goes overboard in anaphylaxis
- initial signs and symptoms may appear within a few seconds, or up to two hours after exposure.
Common Causes of Anaphylaxis
Stings:
Bees, wasps, hornets, yellow jackets, fire ants.
Foods:
Peanuts, milk eggs, shellfish, whitefish, other nuts, and food additives.
Medications:
Certain antibiotics, seizure medications, muscle relaxants, ASA, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory agents.
Signs and Symptoms of Anaphylaxis
- itching of skin and a raised rash (hives)
- flushing, swelling of the tissues of the lips, throat, tongue, hands, and/or feet
- wheezing, shortness of breath, coughing, hoarseness
- headache, nausea, vomiting, abdominal cramps
- sense of impending doom, loss of consciousness
The EpiPen®
- a disposable drug delivery system which gives a measured dose of adrenaline or epinephrine
- spring activated
- concealed needle
- intramuscular injection
Adrenaline/Epinephrine
- a quick acting natural hormone produced in two glands sitting above each kidney
- released when we meet an emergency
- tightens up blood vessels
- increases heart rate
- widens air passages in the lungs
- gives us feeling of alertness, shakiness
- prepares the body for "fight or flight"
- works against the effects of anaphylaxis
When to Use EpiPen
Use the EpiPen during an allergic reaction if a person experiences:
- difficulty breathing
- swelling in throat causing difficulty swallowing
- wheezing
- raspy cough
- fainting, collapse, or loss of conscious
How to tell the Difference Between Fainting and Anaphylaxis
| | Anaphylaxis | Fainting |
| Colour | Typically PINK | Typically PALE |
| Pulse | Fast | Slow |
| Other Symptoms | Rash and Swelling | |
How to Use EpiPen
- Pull off the grey safety cap.
- Place the tip of the device (black end) at the middle part of the outer thigh. Do not use buttock or close to the knee.
- Activate the EpiPen by pushing firmly. There will be a click when the hidden needle ejects forward into the thigh muscle.
Treatment of Anaphylaxis
- ensure a second person has called 911 as soon as the decision to use the EpiPen is made
- inform 911 operator of possible anaphylaxis and use of EpiPen
- notify the family or designate of the situation
- if available, a second EpiPen may be used in 15 minutes if there is no improvement or if the allergic reaction recurs
Side Effects of Epinephrine
- Usually Minor - dizziness
- anxiety
- increased Heart Rate
- headache
- fear
- shakiness
If You’re Not Sure ...
DO give Epinephrine if in doubt
If you think:
- there may be any risk to life because of difficulty in breathing, or;
- because it seems possible the patient is beginning to feel faint;
- the earlier you give the epinephrine, the better it will work!
For a complete package of Food Allergy Facts
Contact the Community Health Services at
519-383-8331 or toll-free at 1-800-667-1839