Anaphylactic reaction and shock are the most serious forms of allergic reaction In the kids. Fortunately they are rare, although when they appear they are very serious. The anaphylactic reaction is also called anaphylaxis.
Allergies in babies are generally relatively common conditions, especially some types, such as diaper rash, contact dermatitis or some food.
Although there are types that manifest very specific symptoms (such as diaper eczema), in general the symptoms of allergies usually appear in the form of skin rashes, such as hives and angioedema. However, these symptoms are not the only ones that can appear, and they can also do it in different ways and with different severity.
In most cases the episodes are usually mild or moderate. Unfortunately there are others in which a severe and generalized allergic reaction occurs in the child, called anaphylactic reaction. This is a severe condition that requires urgent treatment, if possible in a hospital setting.
If left unchecked, this severe reaction can progress resulting in a very serious condition that constitutes a risk even for the child's life, known as anaphylactic shock.
This post discusses how these pictures can appear, teaches them to recognize them and even notions are given about their treatment and, what is even more important, their prevention.
Causes of anaphylaxis and shock in babies
As in the rest of the allergies, the basis of the process consists of a excessive reaction of the child's defensive system against a substance that is considered as strange or harmful. This defensive reaction consists of mechanisms of inflammation, and is so large and exaggerated that it can compromise the life of the child in the most severe cases and cannot be controlled in time.
Almost any substance that can generate an allergy can end up triggering anaphylaxis or shock. However, there are some that are typically associated with these pictures more easily, such as drugs, certain foods (especially nuts, milk or some fruits) or the poisons of insects or animals.
In cases where it is known that a child is allergic to any of these substances, or others but that trigger severe conditions, precautionary measures should always be taken.
Symptoms of anaphylactic reaction and shock in childhood
One of the most negative aspects is that this picture evolves very quickly, so that it can be established in just half an hour. Mild or initial cases may manifest as itching or tingling; then difficulty breathing due to inflammation appears; Finally, the picture becomes widespread and very intense.
Shock occurs when the inflammation reaction is so important that the child's body's systems, such as the cardiovascular system, begin to fail. When this system fails, the child cannot maintain adequate blood pressure, so the blood begins to not reach the organs properly, generating a picture of enormous severity.
Treatment of anaphylactic reaction and shock in childhood
In the slightest suspicion that a child may be having an anaphylactic reaction or shock, You should always go to an emergency department quickly or activate emergency services in case the child is serious.
The most incipient cases (mild or moderate) can usually be controlled by the administration of oxygen, antihistamines, corticosteroids or adrenaline.
In severe cases (or already in shock phase) the treatment can be more complex, since the involvement is greater. These cases may require income in Pediatric Intensive Care units.
In summary…
The anaphylactic reaction and shock They are two serious cases, the result of the body's inflammatory response to a substance that triggers an allergy picture.
Both pictures they may be suspected when a generalized allergic reaction occurs and serious in a child, and should always be treated urgently in a hospital setting.
Most cases, caught in time, they have a very good prognosis. In which the affectation is greater the prognosis will depend a lot on the severity of the picture.
It is important to note that although they are serious conditions, they are usually rare and can also be prevented. Prevention is essential, and it can be stated in fact that it is the best possible treatment.
The best prevention is to have the possible allergies well diagnosed in a child and thus be able to avoid exposing the child to the agent to which he is allergic. It is very important that any child caregiver knows about this allergy and when in doubt, does not expose the child to food or situations that may be doubtful.
In case the table appears, caregivers should know how to recognize it, since the speed in treating it is essential for the prognosis.
