Published on December 02, 2010
Life-Threatening Anaphylaxis: Would You Know The Symptoms?
Dean Clinic Allergist Works to Educate Parents, Teachers and Community
Roughly 1,500 people in the U.S. die each year due to anaphylaxis, a sudden, serious allergic reaction that often stops people from breathing. Many of those deaths could be prevented if more people knew the symptoms and the immediate treatment needed to survive.
To increase awareness in the community about anaphylaxis, Dean Clinic Allergist Don Bukstein, MD, has joined the national Anaphylaxis Community Experts (ACEs) educational program. The goal is to present community awareness programs to schools, hospital grand rounds, PTA meetings, medical offices, Scouting organizations, EMS, fire and police departments and more.
Anaphylaxis is a rapid-onset, whole body, potentially life-threatening allergic reaction. It can happen to any person at any time, but is more commonly experienced among people with certain risk factors.
There are three major risk factors for fatal anaphylaxis:
- Allergic reaction to food, stinging insects or medications
- Presence or history of asthma symptoms
- Delay in administration of epinephrine
“The first line of treatment is to administer epinephrine as early as possible,” says Dr. Bukstein. “Nearly all fatal anaphylaxis occurs outside the home when treatment is delayed. Our goal is to show parents, teachers, school nurses, emergency responders and others how to recognize and respond to anaphylaxis symptoms the moment they begin.”
Every child at risk should have an anaphylaxis action plan on file with all schools and caregivers. The plan should list symptoms, state that immediate action can be life-saving and outline what to do in order of importance.
If you are interested in having Dr. Bukstein speak at your school, community group or workplace, please
call (608) 294-6080.
