Anaphylaxis refers to a serious, life-endangering allergic response that can happen immediately or within minutes after contact with a trigger, such as food, medicine, or an insect sting. Common allergens that trigger anaphylaxis include peanuts, tree nuts, shellfish, eggs, milk, insect stings, latex, and certain medications. Preventing exposure to known allergens is key to avoiding an anaphylactic reaction. Let’s understand some tips and strategies for the prevention of anaphylaxis.
What can you do to prevent anaphylaxis?
Some tips for the prevention of anaphylaxis are:
- Avoid known allergens - Be vigilant about reading ingredient labels, notifying restaurants about food allergies, and avoiding insect nests or hives if you have a sting allergy. Strict avoidance is the best form of prevention.
- Carry auto-injectors - Always have two epinephrine auto-injectors on hand in case of accidental exposure. Check expiration dates and refill prescriptions before they expire.
- Learn to use auto-injectors - Practice with a trainer device to ensure you know how to administer epinephrine during an emergency properly.
- Tell others - Make sure friends, family members, coworkers, teachers, etc., know about your allergies and how to administer your auto-injector if needed.
- Wear medical ID jewellery - Wear a medical alert bracelet or necklace to identify your allergies if you become unable to communicate.
- Administer epinephrine for any symptoms - Even if symptoms seem mild, give epinephrine immediately at the first sign of anaphylaxis for the best chance of survival.