Allergic Reactions
What is Anaphylaxis? And Do You Have an Emergency Action Plan to Keep You Safe?
Here at Arkansas Allergy & Asthma Clinic, PA, we remain focused on helping our valued patients conquer their allergy symptoms once and for all. We strive to identify allergen triggers, present effective treatment options, and help our patients understand the importance of having an anaphylaxis emergency action plan.
Anaphylaxis can be life-threatening and requires prompt treatment. Epinephrine is used to treat severe allergic reactions that can be caused by insect stings, food, drugs, and other allergens. Epinephrine is prescribed in an auto-injector that can be used during anaphylaxis to reverse the life-threatening symptoms. Some patients may require more than one dose, so it is recommended patients with allergies carry two epinephrine auto-injectors with them at all times. Delay of administering epinephrine has been associated with fatal reactions.
We recommend keeping track of the expiration date on your epinephrine auto-injector. The effectiveness of the epinephrine may decrease after that date. You can inspect the epinephrine solution through the devices viewing window to monitor for discoloration and particulate matter.
Warning Signs of Anaphylaxis:
Serious allergic reactions can have various symptoms but usually involve a combination of symptoms in two or more different body systems; this includes:
- Skin: flushing, itching, and hives
- Ears, Nose, Mouth, and Throat: metallic taste, itching or tingling of the mouth, swelling of the tongue, lips, or throat.
- Lungs: chest tightness, wheezing, or shortness of breath
- GI: abdominal cramping, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea
- Cardiovascular: drop in blood pressure, dizziness, cardiac arrest
How to Use an Epinephrine Auto-injector:
Epi-pen and Auvi-Q are two kinds of epinephrine auto-injectors, but several types are available with a prescription. Carefully review the manufacturer’s instructions included with your medication. The injection should be given in the outer thigh and can be used through clothing. After using an epinephrine auto-injector, seek emergency medical attention regardless of the outcome, and bring the auto-injector with you to be disposed of.
Our board-certified physicians can create an action plan for your allergies at one of our two locations in Little Rock and Conway, Arkansas. Schedule an appointment today to find relief from your allergies!