Allergic Reactions
Alternate Names : Acquired Sensitivity Reaction, Induced Sensitivity Reaction
What are the treatments for the condition?
First aid for the treatment of mild to moderate reactions includes the following steps:
Reassure the person to calm him or her down and lessen the severity of the reaction.
If possible, identify and remove the trigger.
If the person develops a
rash, apply calamine lotion and
cool compresses.
Over-the-counter antihistamines, such as
diphenhydramine, can be taken to decrease the allergic response. Prescription medicines
may be needed in some cases to open the airways. Steroids, such as prednisone,
may be used to decrease swelling and open airways.
A severe allergic reaction is treated as above with a few extra measures.
Many people who have severe allergic
reactions carry medicine, such as epinephrine, in case exposure to the
trigger occurs. The person may need help injecting the medicine.
The person's airway and breathing should be checked.
If necessary, cardiopulmonary resuscitation, or CPR, should be
started.
The person should be lying down. His or her feet should be
raised above head level. However, if the person has or may have a
head, neck, back, or leg injury, he or she should not be moved.
The person should be covered with a blanket or coat for
warmth.
What are the side effects of the treatments?
Antihistamines can cause drowsiness. Prednisone can cause stomach problems, mood swings, and sleep problems. These side effects are generally very mild.
Medicines used to open the airways can cause shakiness and abnormal heart
rate. These, too, tend to be mild. Epinephrine can cause significant anxiety,
shakiness, and abnormal heart rate. This medicine is often
administered in the doctor's office or emergency room.
What happens after treatment for the condition?
Anyone who has a known serious allergic reaction should wear a medical alert
bracelet at all times. This tag identifies the allergy. The substance to which the person is
allergic should be avoided. Friends and relatives should be made aware of
the allergy in case of an exposure or emergency. Those with an allergic reaction to a medicine
should tell their healthcare provider.
How is the condition monitored?
The affected person should avoid the substance to which he or she is allergic. People
with severe allergies may be given a medicine for injection in case of an
exposure. Any new or worsening symptoms should be reported to the healthcare
provider.
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