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Anaphylaxis has been about for a long, long time. It's not just something that's new. However, in recent years, it's become a lot more of a problem. Anaphylaxis is an allergic reaction. This allergic reaction is when you ingest something, it could be eating peanuts when you get something injected into you, which could be a bee sting or a wasp sting, or maybe you inhale something, a chemical or a product which is going to cause a reaction. Now, in the average person, if they get stung by a bee, maybe they get stung on their hand, what will happen then is the hand will then swell up and they have local pain, local discomfort, and that will be the problem. It's very uncomfortable, but it's quite straightforward. However, somebody who has an anaphylactic reaction will have other signs and symptoms. Not only will it have the local pain where the actual bee has stung them, but also their throat will start to swell. They will have lots of other signs and symptoms which are going to cause them problems in breathing. This is going to be very, very stressful for them and they are going to have a lot of trouble breathing and they need to have emergency care very, very quickly. Looking back 10, 20 years ago, we wouldn't have had warnings on food about, "This product may contain nuts," or "possible allergens within the food." Whereas now, this has become much more of a problem. There's lots of thought into why this is a problem more now than it was, maybe 20 years ago. 20 years ago cases of anaphylaxis, there were people with allergies, but also wasp stings, bee stings were a problem, but not quite to the extreme, it is now. Now, we always have every food you've got, you can look at the food, you can actually see there, it will say, "May contain nuts or traces of nuts." You might hear announcements on aeroplanes where someone has got a severe allergic reaction to peanuts and they are saying that they are not actually... They're asking people not to actually consume nuts on the plane. Generally speaking, it's much more of a problem. Some of the lifestyle changes that have happened are the houses we live in. Houses are a lot more controlled now in temperature, humidity, whereas the houses before would have had open cracks in the windows, problems there, draughts. Whereas now we are in much more of a controlled environment. Central heating can also cause problems. The wider array of foods that people can consume. Now, the average shopping basket, you will get foods which are out of season. Other substances from all around the world. So there are lots of different ideas within what causes this. And it also links within anaphylaxis, it links with asthma, which is also a problem which is increasing. Although in this course, we're going to be talking about the different treatment methods that are available, you would still need to call the emergency services. Anaphylaxis is something that comes on very, very quickly. You can give the auto-injector and they can seem to feel better very, very quickly. But this is still a 999 emergency, even if the person appears to be much better.
Anaphylaxis: Understanding the Allergic Challenge
The Timeless Presence of Anaphylaxis
An Ongoing Issue:
Contrary to common belief, anaphylaxis has a long history, but its significance has grown in recent years.
Anaphylaxis Unveiled
A Serious Allergic Reaction:
Anaphylaxis is a severe form of allergic response, triggered by various means, including ingestion, inhalation, injection, or contact with allergenic substances.
The Role of Allergens:
An allergen is the substance responsible for the allergic reaction. Allergens are unique to individuals, and not everyone shares the same allergens.
Diverse Reactions:
While some may experience mild discomfort from a bee sting, those allergic to it face complex symptoms, sometimes leading to fatal consequences if not promptly treated.
The Challenging Breathing:
Persons facing anaphylaxis often encounter severe breathing difficulties, adding to the stress of the situation.
The Role of Food Labeling
Mandatory Allergen Disclosure:
EU regulations since 2011 have mandated clear labeling of potential allergens in food products due to the rising prevalence of allergies and anaphylaxis.
Identifying Allergenic Risks:
These regulations enable consumers to assess food packaging for potential allergens, enhancing safety for those with allergies.
Travel and Allergies:
Notably, airline announcements about nut allergies illustrate the widespread impact of allergies and anaphylaxis in various domains.
The Changing Home Environment
Controlled Living Spaces:
Modern homes maintain stable temperature and humidity levels compared to older, drafty residences.
Reduced Early Exposure:
This controlled environment limits early exposure to allergens, potentially hindering the development of natural antibodies.
Links with Asthma:
Anaphylaxis is intertwined with the escalating issue of asthma, compounding health challenges.
Seeking Medical Assistance
Prompt EMS Contact:
Anaphylaxis rapidly progresses, necessitating immediate EMS contact, even if initial relief is provided by an auto-injector.
The Soaring Prevalence
A Growing Allergy Epidemic:
In 2016, the European Academy of Allergy and Clinical Immunology revealed that over 150 million Europeans grapple with chronic allergic conditions. Predictions estimate that by 2025, half of the EU population will be affected by such challenges.
Stay informed about the evolving landscape of anaphylaxis.