What is anaphylaxis? Here are the causes, symptoms and how you can prevent this allergic reaction

Allergy to foods like peanuts, lactose-containing products like milk and cheese, soy, wheat, fish, sesame, and even seafood can trigger Anaphylaxis (Image: Canva)

A potentially fatal allergic reaction that can involve one or more organs or organ systems within a few seconds of exposure to a particular trigger (like drugs, food, or insect stings) is known as anaphylactic.

Though allergic reactions have been around for a long time, it was in the 20th century that Charles Richet and Paul Portier coined the term 'anaphylaxis'. They were experimenting with immunising dogs against toxins, similar to Pasteur's work. To their astonishment, the toxin caused the death of the animals.

This phenomenon was then named 'anaphylaxis,' derived from 'ana-' (meaning against) and 'phylaxis' (meaning guarding).

Anaphylaxis prompts the immune system to release chemicals that can lead to shock, sudden drops in blood pressure, and narrowing of the airways, making it a life-threatening condition.

The various types of allergens include:

Existing diseases: Pre-existing asthma and cardiovascular diseases can make a person susceptible to allergic reactions.

Food: Allergy to foods like peanuts, lactose-containing products like milk and cheese, soy, wheat, fish, sesame, and even shellfish has been observed.

Insects: Hymenoptera allergy refers to allergies due to insects. It is common in people whose occupations involve close contact with these arthropods, like beekeepers, landscape workers and those who collect trash.

Environmental allergies: Some people may have allergic reactions due to pollen, mould, dust, pet dander, and even cockroaches.

Drug allergy: Common triggering drugs include penicillin, antibiotics like sulpha drugs, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs like aspirin and ibuprofen, and anticonvulsants (used for treating epilepsy).

The initial signs may be similar to a common allergy, but they may turn serious within half an hour or so. Coughing, wheezing and itching may be common, and you may feel your chest tightening. A runny and stuffy nose is often experienced. Moreover, it may be followed by dizziness, confusion, and a fainting episode. Insect allergies usually result in itchy, swollen skin that becomes red.

There may be other symptoms where the tongue becomes swollen with an increased heartbeat. Laryngeal oedema may present as a 'lump' in the throat, which can result in hoarseness and stridor. The lower airways may be compromised in people who have asthma. Nausea and vomiting can also be seen.

Here is what you must keep in mind if you or someone around you is prone to experiencing an anaphylactic reaction:

Be prepared: Keep an emergency kit with you at all times. You must add the prescribed medication after consulting your healthcare provider. It is essential to keep refilling it in case the medicines or auto-injector have expired.

Maintain caution: If you are aware of the triggering allergens, it is best to be on your guard around them. If your allergens are environmental, consider wearing long-sleeved shirts and pants, avoid walking on grassy lands barefoot and stay away from scented lotions or colognes that may invite insects.

Check food labels: If you have food allergies, you must be careful while selecting your food items, especially if they change periodically. Just because you have an allergy does not mean you must miss out; you can always look for consumable options. For example, if you are lactose-intolerant, you can still consume cheese like Swiss or Parmesan.

Despite all measures, anaphylaxis can be life-threatening, and you must visit the hospital as soon as possible if you identify any of the symptoms.