Allergies are a common condition affecting millions worldwide and can cause many symptoms. The body’s immune system may exhibit an atypical response to substances commonly considered innocuous, such as pollen, dust, specific types of food or medicine, or insect stings. When the immune system overreacts to these substances, it triggers an allergic reaction that can be mild to severe.
What Are Allergies?
Allergies happen inside the body when the immune system overreacts to a normally harmless substance known as an allergen. When an allergen enters the body, it triggers the production of an antibody called immunoglobulin E (IgE), which attaches to special cells called mast cells and basophils.
The next time the body encounters that same allergen, it binds to the IgE antibodies on the surface of the mast cells and basophils, causing these cells to release a variety of chemicals, such as histamine, leukotrienes, and cytokines.
These chemicals cause a range of symptoms of an allergic reaction, such as itching, sneezing, runny nose, watery eyes, hives, swelling, and difficulty breathing. The severity of the reaction can vary widely, from mild symptoms to life-threatening anaphylaxis.
Many substances, including pollen, pet dander, dust mites, certain foods, medications, insect stings, and latex, can trigger allergic reactions. Genetic and environmental factors can influence the immune system’s overreaction to these substances, and allergies can develop anytime during a person’s life.
Doctors diagnose allergies through medical history, physical examination, and allergy testing. Based on the results of these tests, the doctor will be able to determine which allergens you are sensitive to and develop a personalized treatment plan to help manage your symptoms.
Most Allergies Are Not Life-Threatening
While most allergies are not life-threatening and can be managed with medication or avoidance of allergens, some types of allergies can lead to serious complications if left untreated. It is especially true for those with severe anaphylaxis allergic reactions.
The Reality
The reality is that allergies are prevalent – up to 30% of adults and 40% of children in the US are affected by them – but only a small percentage will develop life-threatening reactions. Nevertheless, anyone with allergies (especially severe ones) must take precautions and seek proper medical care if things worsen.
Types of Allergies That Can Be Fatal
Allergies are often thought of as minor annoyances that cause redness, itching, or hives. However, some allergies can be deadly.
The most severe allergic reaction is anaphylaxis, which can cause a rapid drop in blood pressure and difficulty breathing. Various triggers, including food allergies and insect stings, can cause anaphylaxis.
Anaphylaxis: what it is and how it can be deadly
Anaphylaxis is a severe allergic reaction that requires immediate medical attention. It occurs when the immune system overreacts to an allergen and releases chemicals that cause symptoms. Anaphylaxis can occur within minutes of exposure to an allergen and can be life-threatening if not treated promptly.
Food allergies: common allergens and their potential to cause anaphylaxis
Food allergies are among the most common causes of anaphylaxis in adults and children. The most common food allergens include peanuts, tree nuts, shellfish, fish, milk, eggs, soybeans, and wheat. These foods contain proteins that trigger an immune response in people with food allergies.
People with food allergies should read ingredient labels carefully before consuming foods to ensure they don’t contain allergens. In addition, those with severe food allergies should always carry an Epinephrine auto-injector (EpiPen) in case of accidental exposure.
Insect sting allergies: types of insects that commonly cause allergic reactions and how they can lead to anaphylaxis
When an insect bites or stings a person, it injects venom or saliva into the body. In people allergic to that particular insect venom or saliva, the immune system sees it as a threat and overreacts, producing an excessive amount of an antibody called immunoglobulin E (IgE). This IgE then triggers the release of histamine and other chemicals from cells in the body, causing allergy symptoms such as itching, swelling, redness, and in severe cases, anaphylaxis.
Some insects that people commonly have allergies to include bees, wasps, hornets, yellow jackets, fire ants, and certain types of flies.
Risk Factors for Fatal Allergic Reactions
While many people have mild to moderate allergies that can be managed with over-the-counter medications, some individuals experience severe allergic reactions that can be fatal. Knowing what puts a person at risk for such reactions is crucial to preventing them.
Previous history of severe allergic reactions
A history of anaphylaxis or other severe allergic reactions puts a person at higher risk of experiencing another severe response. Even if the first reaction wasn’t fatal, subsequent ones may be more intense and harder to treat.
Age: children and young adults are at higher risk
Children and young adults are generally at higher risk for fatal allergic reactions. This may be partly due to their smaller body size and developing immune systems, which may not respond as effectively to allergens as adults. Additionally, many people develop allergies during childhood or adolescence that persist into adulthood.
Other health conditions that weaken the immune system
A person with an underlying health condition that weakens their immune system may be more susceptible to severe allergic reactions. Diseases such as HIV/AIDS, cancer, and autoimmune disorders can all impact how the body reacts to allergens.
Certain medications used to treat these conditions can also increase the risk of anaphylaxis or make it harder to treat if it does occur. By understanding these risk factors, individuals with allergies can take steps to prevent severe reactions from occurring or seek treatment immediately if they do experience symptoms of anaphylaxis.
Symptoms of Anaphylaxis
The symptoms of anaphylaxis can vary from person to person but often involve multiple systems in the body.
Difficulty breathing or swallowing
One of the most common symptoms of anaphylaxis is difficulty breathing or swallowing. This can be caused by swelling in the throat, making it difficult for air to pass through. People experiencing this symptom may feel like choking or suffocating and have a hoarse voice, coughing, or wheezing.
Swelling of the face, lips, or tongue
Another common symptom of anaphylaxis is swelling of the face, lips, or tongue. This can cause the face to become puffy and distorted and make it difficult to speak clearly. It can also lead to difficulty breathing if the swelling affects the throat.
Rapid heartbeat or drop in blood pressure
Anaphylaxis can also cause rapid changes in heart rate and blood pressure. For some people, this may result in a feeling of faintness or dizziness and may lead to loss of consciousness if left untreated. A drop in blood pressure may also cause lightheadedness and weakness.
It’s important to note that not all symptoms must be present for an allergic reaction to be considered anaphylactic. If you suspect that someone has a severe allergic reaction with any of these symptoms present, call 911 immediately.
Treatment for Severe Allergic Reactions
Epinephrine Auto-Injectors (EpiPens) and How They Work
When treating life-threatening allergic reactions, epinephrine is the most effective medication. Epinephrine works by constricting blood vessels and relaxing the muscles in the airways, which can help reverse the symptoms of anaphylaxis. EpiPens are a common type of epinephrine auto-injector designed for people with severe allergies.
They come in a small, portable case containing a spring-loaded needle used to inject epinephrine into the body. Using an EpiPen is relatively simple; after removing it from its case, you remove the safety cap and press the needle against your upper thigh.
The needle will then automatically inject a pre-measured dose of epinephrine into your body. Even if you’re unsure whether an allergic reaction causes your symptoms, using an EpiPen is always safer when in doubt.
Importance of Seeking Medical Attention Immediately
While using an EpiPen can be lifesaving in the short term, it’s important to remember that it’s only a temporary solution to a potentially life-threatening problem. After using an EpiPen, you should call 911 or seek immediate medical attention immediately. This is because even though epinephrine can help reverse some of the symptoms of anaphylaxis, other complications can still occur after using one.
For example, some people may experience rebound symptoms once the effects of epinephrine wear off. Additionally, some people may require additional treatments like oxygen therapy or intravenous fluids, depending on their reaction’s severity.
While having access to an EpiPen is crucial for those with severe allergies, it’s important to remember that it’s just one part of the treatment process. Seeking immediate medical attention and following up with a healthcare provider after using an EpiPen can help ensure you receive the best care in case of a life-threatening allergic reaction.
Conclusion
While allergies can be deadly, preventative measures can significantly reduce the risk of a fatal outcome. Knowing what triggers your allergies and avoiding exposure is critical in preventing reactions from occurring in the first place. However, accidents happen despite our best efforts, so carrying an EpiPen should always be part of any prevention plan.
Education for yourself and loved ones will also ensure everyone knows what steps need to be taken when dealing with severe allergies. Those with allergies can live a healthy and whole life with proper management techniques.
