Anaphylaxis awareness: every second counts

by Richard van Staden

Created by the World Allergy Organization (WAO), World Allergy Week is an annual campaign that run from from 29 June to 5 July with a critical focus on anaphylaxis, a severe, potentially life-threatening allergic reaction that requires immediate medical attention. Here in South Africa, The Allergy Foundation of South Africa (AFSA) and the Allergy Society of South Africa (ALLSA) are spearheading local awareness efforts to save lives.

What is anaphylaxis

Anaphylaxis is the term given to a medical emergency that typically develops after exposure to allergens which can include certain foods, insect venom, medications, or even latex. Though in South Africa, bee venom is the most common cause, food-induced anaphylaxis, particularly from eggs, peanuts, tree nuts, fish, shellfish, and milk, is increasingly prevalent.

Recognising the symptoms of anaphylaxis

With anaphylaxis, it’s important to move fast as symptoms can come on in a matter of seconds.  It may start as mild allergy signs like breaking out in hives, redness, or itching, followed by more serious developments including difficulty breathing or swallowing, swelling of the tongue or throat, abdominal pain, vomiting, dizziness, low blood pressure, and loss of consciousness.

“Anaphylaxis doesn’t give you much time. If it’s not treated within minutes, the consequences can be devastating,” says Professor Mike Levin, CEO of AFSA and head of Allergology at Red Cross Children’s Hospital. “We need the public to understand that this is not just a severe allergy – this is a life-threatening emergency.”

Because exposure to allergens can happy anywhere, Levin emphasises the need for awareness to go beyond the patient and their home. “Teachers, caregivers, coaches, and community members need to know how to recognise the signs of anaphylaxis and what to do,” he explains. “That’s why education and access to emergency medication are critical parts of this year’s campaign.”

Emergency treatment: adrenaline saves lives

Because of the escalation of symptoms when it comes to anaphylaxis, the immediate administration of intramuscular adrenaline (epinephrine) is crucial. In fact, most people who are at risk of a life-threatening allergic reaction should have an adrenaline auto-injector on them at all times and they should be trained in its use.

“Adrenaline should be administered as soon as anaphylaxis is suspected. It can be lifesaving,” says Dr Candice Royal, paediatric allergist and medical advisor to AFSA. “A second dose may be needed if there’s no improvement within five minutes, but the most important step is calling emergency medical services and heading to the nearest hospital right away.”

Prevention through education and testing

Of course, the most effective prevention method is avoiding known allergens which is why an accurate diagnosis through allergy testing that will help identify triggers is crucial especially for patients with unexplained or idiopathic reactions.

“Education is key to prevention,” adds Dr Pieter de Waal, allergist and ALLSA member. “We urge patients, caregivers, schools, and healthcare professionals to be allergy-aware – understanding both the causes and the practical steps needed to manage this risk can truly save lives.”

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