01/16/2018
Allergic reaction
Human body has a pretty good self-defense mechanism. It knows the difference between “harmless” (dust, pollen, etc.) intruders and harmful enemies (viruses, bacteria, parasites, and infections) that can cause human to be sick (to dogs and cats as well). To the less harmful intruders, our body may try to physiologically (such as sneezing, coughing, etc.,) expelling these foreign objects. If the physical act fails to expel the intruders, these “harmless” invaders couple up with the H1 receptors in the body, in turn, stimulate the immune system to produce histamine. Histamine, is found in the various area of the body, and it released when triggered by these invaders, then it goes into action and proceeds to combat these foreign bodies – mostly in the affected tissues. We may think of histamines as the bouncers at a nightclub. They help you get rid of the undesirables - in this case, the “trigger”, or "allergen." The chain reactions such as a runny nose, sneeze, tear up, coughing, itching, or whatever (inflammation, excess mucus) it takes to get the job done. At times the antibodies deploy by the immune system get a little overzealous and the “pit bull” actually cause more discomfort than the allergens. In fact, the human body may react so “violently” may shut down bodily functions and cause death (Anaphylaxis caused by peanut, penicillin).
To remedy these conditions, we counter by taking antihistamine. Once the Antihistamine enters our system, it competes against the allergens for the H1 receptors, calming and slow down the production of histamine. The histamine production decreases or stops, bringing needed relief of those symptoms.
Most of us are aware of what substance(s) we are sensitive to, prevention is almost always easier than to cure. In severe cases, simple allergic reaction elevated to anaphylaxis, which can be life-threatening. Call 911. If it is a known allergen, your doctor may prescribe epinephrine for emergency needs. Most are in the form of an epinephrine auto-injector (epi-pen). Do not delay in using it, and repeat another dose after 5 to 15 minutes if the symptoms did not improve. It is always a good idea to follow up with medical attention even if the medication managed to subside the symptoms temporarily. In the event if the symptoms return and you would be caught without any medication for the new emergency.
More advanced discussion
The care of allergic reactions involve preventing the release of histamine. There are 4 types of histamine (H1, H2, H3, H4) and the common “anti-histamine” that are available over the counter such as Benadryl, Zyrtec, Allegra, or Claritin.
Anaphylaxis does not stop at wheezing, swelling and most important of all, inflammation, and constriction of the airway (difficulty in breathing). If the Patient is known to have severe allergic reactions, they are likely to carry epinephrine (prescribed) with them in their backpacks or f***y packs. The medication epinephrine is stored in measured dosage in the form of an auto-injector (EpiPen). The administration of the epinephrine is literally live and death. Time is of the essence and should not be taken lightly.
Guideline:
Carefully read the label. There are several other medications utilize the same delivery method (auto injector).
• Be sure it is epi-pen
• Be sure if is prescribed to the patient intended
• Be sure it is not expired
• Do activate EMS (911)
