Anaphylaxis is an extremely serious condition that can be life threatening. It is an allergic response that has symptoms such as hives, swelling, dilated blood vessels, and lowered blood pressure. In extreme cases, a person suffering from anaphylaxis will go into anaphylactic shock. If the shock is not treated immediately, it will lead to death. Usually this condition will occur when the immune system creates antibodies to fight a substance, which is normally harmless. When the individual is exposed to the substance, their body does not react however, it does produce antibodies. When someone is exposed to that same substance a second time, the antibodies immediately spring into action, which releases large amounts of histamine. Histamine is the cause of these symptoms.
Anaphylaxis begins with severe itching of the face and eyes. Shortly thereafter, the condition progresses to symptoms that is more serious. The symptoms abdominal pain, difficulty breathing and swallowing, vomiting, cramps hives, diarrhea and hives that swell.
When the symptoms of anaphylaxis are seen that individual should seek emergency medical treatment immediately. This condition quickly results in a rapid heart rate, decreased blood pressure, weakness, shock and ultimately death. It is highly advisable for anyone that suffers from anaphylaxis wear a medic alert bracelet or necklace.
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