What is Anaphylactic Shock? The Symptoms and Treatments to Know

Research shows that one in 50 Americans will experience anaphylaxis, a life-threatening allergic reaction, at some point in their lives. Other estimates put the number closer to one in 20.

A prevailing symptom of this condition is anaphylactic shock, which occurs when your blood pressure drops so low that your organs are deprived of essential oxygen.

As it is with any medical issue, knowledge is key in this case. A medical id bracelet will also help in case of emergency. Mediband provides a range emergency id bracelets and jewellery including silicone medical id, stainless steel medical id bracelets, dog tags, medical id cards and more.

Knowing the signs and symptoms of anaphylactic shock can help make sure you're prepared if you ever notice signs of it in yourself or others.

Today, we're taking a closer look at what this condition entails, when to seek medical attention, the different treatments available, and more.

Ready to get started? Let's go!

What is Anaphylactic Shock?

It isn't uncommon for people to experience sensitivity to certain types of food, insect bites, or medications. However, a small portion of the population experiences a severe allergic reaction known as anaphylaxis.

Though they're often used interchangeably, anaphylaxis is the overarching condition, while anaphylactic shock is a type of shock that occurs as a result of it.

What Causes It?

The triggers for anaphylaxis vary among suffers. Some of the most common ones include:

• Certain foods (especially nuts and shellfish)
• Latex
• Medications (especially penicillin and aspirin)
• Insect bites or stings

What Are the Symptoms?

How can you distinguish the specific signs and symptoms of anaphylactic shock? In most cases, you'll notice the first symptoms within 15 minutes of being exposed to the allergen.

At first, your reaction might appear mild. Common symptoms include a runny nose or a general feeling of uneasiness. However, it's important to understand that what seems to be a small-scale issue can exacerbate, fast.

When to Seek Medical Treatment

It's possible that you'll only experience mild allergy symptoms when you come into contact with a trigger. However, before long, you might notice more serious symptoms, including:

• Rapid heartbeat
• Hives
• Vomiting
• Dizziness
• Fainting
• Throat tightening
• Difficulty breathing
• Mouth swelling

In some of the most severe cases, the above conditions can accelerate rapidly, causing the sufferer to collapse, stop breathing, and become unconscious in a matter of minutes.

If you experience any of the above, seek medical attention immediately. It's better to err on the side of caution than wait too late for support.

While it's possible to enter anaphylactic shock after one exposure to a trigger, you usually have to come into contact with it more than once before you experience such a severe allergic reaction. That's why it's important to discuss any concerns with your general physician.

For example, if you get a bee sting and your skin swells at the site, mention it. The same goes for that scratchiness in your throat you felt after eating shrimp. Your doctor can prescribe you medication to keep on hand in case your next reaction is more severe.

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Available Medical Treatments

The most critical treatment in response to anaphylactic shock is a shot of epinephrine delivered in your thigh.

This hormone and medication works to reverse the symptoms of anaphylaxis. For instance, you enter shock because your blood vessels relax and dilate to the extreme. To counter this reaction, epinephrine causes your blood vessels to constrict, raising your blood pressure to a normal level.

If you carry an EpiPen, you can deliver this life-saving dose right away. However, it's still important to call 911 and go to the emergency room.

This is because even after the epinephrine takes effect, you could still be at risk for a second reaction. Known as a biphasic reaction, this could occur up to 12 hours after your initial reaction.

In an emergency room setting, you'll be under constant monitoring so nurses can intercede as necessary to deliver additional treatment. And, if you don't have epinephrine on hand, emergency room doctors can deliver the shot there.

While your symptoms persist (even mildly) you'll also receive other medications, including fluids, antihistamines, and steroids, to keep your levels where they need to be.

In addition, other common treatments include:

• A breathing tube
• Medications designed to facilitate easier breathing
• Corticosteroids to prevent relapses

How to Prevent Anaphylactic Shock

It goes without saying that one of the best ways to avoid anaphylactic shock is to stay clear of any known triggers. However, this might not be possible all of the time and it's especially difficult if you can't pinpoint what caused the reaction in the first place.

To this end, make sure you have a plan in place that can help you identify and treat any symptoms as they occur. Ask your doctor for advice on the information that you should include in this plan.

Another way to stay ahead of your condition? Wear a medical bracelet at all times that can alert others around you about your allergy if you're unable to talk.

Today, you aren't limited to stainless steel models. Our Medibands are made of high-grade silicone that's durable, comfortable and waterproof, making them ideal for even your youngest family members.

Find ones imprinted with your specific allergy type to help identify your condition. It's a cost-effective resource that could save your life.

Identifying and Preventing Critical Medical Issues

No one likes to think about experiencing a major medical concern. Yet, the reality is that no one is immune. From anaphylactic shock and epilepsy to diabetes and asthma, there are myriad conditions that can turn a normal day serious in seconds.

That's why it pays to take every precaution possible, and our Medibands are an important part of this strategy.

Take a look at our extensive online inventory to find a pack of bands that meets your needs. We have many styles to choose from, all designed to give you peace of mind and an added layer of protection.

Contact us today to learn more and put your health first.