This webinar covered Section 504 plans for students at risk for anaphylaxis, legal rights for students, IHPs & emergency plans.
Anaphylaxis
5 Things to Know about Anaphylaxis in Schools: Emergency Plans
This webinar covers practical information about managing allergies, food allergies and anaphylaxis in the school setting.
5 Things to Know about Anaphylaxis in the School Setting
This webinar was originally recorded in April 2020. Webinar Objectives: At the end of the learning...
Idiopathic Anaphylaxis- What to Do When a Cause Eludes You
Dr. Anne Ellis discusses how to evaluate a patient when a cause for anaphylaxis is not identified — also known as idiopathic anaphylaxis.
American Airlines is Stocking Auvi-Q in Medical Kits
The Network continues to advocate for airlines to stock epinephrine auto-injectors in emergency medical kits for the treatment of anaphylaxis.
Ask the Allergist: Eating Out with Food Allergies
Dr. Michael Pistiner answers the Ask the Allergist question: What are some tips for people with food allergies to stay safe when eating out at a restaurant?
After the ER: How to Ensure a Safe Transition of Care for Asthma or Anaphylaxis
Tips for managing your follow up care and emotional well-being after needing emergency care for asthma or anaphylaxis
Food Allergy & Anaphylaxis for the Infant- Special Considerations
Allergist Michael Pistiner, MD reviewed the management of food-induced anaphylaxis in infants; how to teach parents to recognize and treat anaphylaxis.
The Asthma-Food Allergy Connection
Asthma and food allergy symptoms often overlap. Respiratory symptoms that are common to asthma –...
Meet the Asthma Blues Man With a Plan
Al Keith is a man of many passions – respiratory health, education and music, to name just a few....
Ask the Allergist: Anaphylaxis or Asthma Flare?
Dr. Todd Mahr answers the Ask the Allergist question: How can people with food allergies know the difference between anaphylaxis and an asthma attack?
Epi Storage Tips At Home And On the Go
Since epinephrine is essential for those at risk for severe allergic reactions, it’s important to know how to store the medication safely.
All About
Anaphylaxis is a severe allergic reaction affecting multiple organ systems and can be fatal if not treated immediately. Exposure to allergens causes a drop in blood pressure and the airways to constrict. Once there are visible symptoms, the condition can worsen quickly, and death may occur in minutes. People who are prone to allergic reactions from food, insect venom, medication and latex should always be prepared for anaphylaxis as symptoms can worsen and change without warning. Someone that experiences mild swelling from a bee sting can subsequently experience potentially fatal symptoms. People with a history of anaphylaxis, a family history of such reactions, or who suffer severe allergies or asthma should all be aware of what to do in an emergency.
Symptoms can include swelling and hives at the site or in the mouth, lips and tongue. Vomiting, shortness of breath, chest pain, wheezing, dizziness, weak pulse, fainting, watery eyes, stuffy nose, sweating, confusion and losing consciousness can also occur. If someone goes into anaphylactic shock, time is of the essence. Epinephrine should be given immediately. Waiting to see if symptoms worsen can be fatal. Emergency treatment should always be sought; even if symptoms improve, the patient needs observation as it is common for a second reaction to occur even hours later.
Epinephrine increases heart rate and blood pressure, relaxes muscles in the airways, helps swelling, and suppresses the patient’s immune response, effectively stopping the reaction. There is no substitute for epinephrine injection; antihistamines only work on mild reactions such as swelling, so do not delay treatment.
Two epinephrine auto-injectors should always be available, as well as an emergency plan with details about symptoms and how to use the device prescribed, especially in the case of at-risk children to have at school or when not with their parents. Epinephrine devices should always be stored at room temperature, never in direct sunlight, and always checked for oxidation and expiration. If the medication has particles or isn’t clear, replace it immediately.