Epinephrine

The main medicine to treat anaphylaxis is epinephrine. This is a medicine given by an injection. The best place to inject it is in the muscles of the outer part of the thigh. If the symptoms do not improve very quickly, the injection should be given again in 5 to 30 minutes.

Children who are old enough can be taught how to give themselves epinephrine if needed. The medicine comes in auto-injector syringes (EpiPen or Twinject) to make this easier. Epinephrine should be prescribed for anyone who has ever had an anaphylactic attack and for children at high risk for anaphylaxis. They are available in 2 different doses based on the weight of the child. You should always have at least 2 doses with you at all times. School-aged children also need one at school with instructions from their doctor about how and when to use it.

Symptoms of anaphylaxis

Anaphylaxis includes a wide range of symptoms that often happen quickly. The most severe symptoms restrict breathing and blood circulation. Combinations of symptoms may occur. The most common symptoms may affect the following:

SKIN: itching, hives, redness, swelling

NOSE: sneezing, stuffy nose, runny nose

MOUTH: itching, swelling of lips or tongue

THROAT: itching, tightness, difficulty swallowing, hoarseness

CHEST: shortness of breath, cough, wheeze, chest pain, tightness

HEART: weak pulse, passing out, shock

GUT: vomiting, diarrhea, cramps

NEUROLOGIC: dizziness, fainting, feeling that you are about to die

Causes of anaphylaxis

Anaphylaxis occurs when the immune system overreacts to normally harmless substances called allergens. The following are the most common allergens that can trigger anaphylaxis: