Have a backup plan for allergies

The incidence of severe allergies, especially to food, is increasing dramatically. In the United States alone, the number of children who are allergic to peanuts has more than doubled in the past five years.

Severe allergies can cause anaphylaxis, a sudden, severe and potentially lifethreatening reaction. It has a wide range of symptoms, including tightness in the chest, difficulty breathing and swallowing, itchy mouth and skin, nausea, hives, fainting and sometimes even death.

For those with severe allergies, doctors most commonly prescribe epinephrine, a lifesaving and fast-acting medication to be used at the onset of anaphylaxis. It is delivered by means of a selfadministered, automated injection through the skin, and begins working immediately to reverse the allergic reaction.

People who have had anaphylaxis should always carry an epinephrine auto-injector. It is also important to know that some anaphylactic reactions can be so severe that a single dose of epinephrine is not always enough. One in three people who have an anaphylactic reaction will require a second dose of epinephrine sometimes within 10 minutes, long before they can get to an emergency room or doctor. Without treatment, anaphylaxis can be fatal.

"Although some patients are good about keeping their epinephrine auto-injectors close by, many do not carry two doses. In fact, a recent study showed that only 16 percent of patients carry a second dose of epinephrine," said Dr. Jaqueline EghrariSabet, a pediatric allergist in Washington, D.C. In addition to carrying a backup dose of epinephrine, the following safety tips are recommended for people with anaphylaxis:

+Have a circle of friends, family members and co-workers who can recognize the symptoms of anaphylaxis, such as gasping for air or facial swelling.

+Don't hesitate to use an epinephrine auto-injector as soon as any symptoms of anaphylaxis occur. The sooner it's used, the better for the patient.

+Don't rely on an antihistamine to overcome the symptoms of anaphylaxis, since it can mask or delay the symptoms of a lifethreatening reaction. Be prepared with two doses of epinephrine.

+When anaphylaxis occurs, immediately seek emergency care. Be sure to go straight to the emergency room after using an epinephrine auto-injector, even if the symptoms subside. Patients need further monitoring after every reaction in case of a delayed or secondary reaction.

+When the epinephrine autoinjector is used, be sure to get the prescription refilled right away to be prepared for the future. Patients are advised to have two doses of epinephrine with them at any time, such as at school, work, gym or restaurants.

This story is provided by North American Precis Syndicate Inc.