In August 2013, a thirteen-year-old girl, Natalie Giorgi, was in a summer camp with her family in Camp Sacramento. Twenty minutes after taking a bite of  dessert, she knew that something felt wrong, so she decided to spit this bite out. Unfortunately, she was unaware that this dessert was made with peanut butter, which was something she was allergic to.  On that evening due to her severe allergic reaction, she was pronounced dead.

Allergy is a common disease that comes with a variety of triggers,  from airborne particles such as pollen and dust mites, to foods such as peanuts and fish. During an allergic reaction, the immune system makes antibodies for and combats the presence of a foreign substance it perceives as harmful, even though it isn’t. The severity of an allergic reaction varies,  from the sniffles to being fatal.

Anaphylaxis is a rapid and severe reaction to allergens. What separates this from a typical allergic reaction is the involvement of respiratory and circulatory issues. If left unattended or treated improperly, it may potentially lead to death. The triggers of this reaction are similar to common allergens, including foods such as peanuts, tree nuts, eggs, and shellfish, medications, latex, and insect venom.

Predicting the occurrence of this reaction is impossible since there are allergens that one may have not encountered yet; however, by being vigilant to the signs and symptoms, one can reduce the chances of suffering in the hands of this life-threatening disease. Signs and symptoms vary from person to person, but some that may appear are the following:

• Itching

• Swelling

• Heavy tongue feeling

• Nausea

• Vomiting

• Fall in blood pressure

• Rapid heart beat

• Troubled breathing

• Loss of consciousness

These symptoms happen right after being in contact with a certain allergen, and their development can be rapid. With that, a quick response is needed to ensure that the individual safely recovers from this experience. Some first-aid treatments to anaphylaxis overlap with responses for common allergic reactions; however, due to the severity of this disease, waiting for the symptoms before calling an emergency number is not recommended. Anaphylaxis is capable of taking a life within half an hour after its onset if not treated in a timely manner. Hence, it is important to be aware of the emergency treatments when signs and symptoms of anaphylaxis appear, which include the following:

• Calling 911 immediately

• Administering epinephrine if available

• Putting the person on their back, and turning them to their sides when vomiting or bleeding occurs

It should be noted that although antihistamines are useful for regular allergic reactions, they are ineffective for anaphylactic reactions.

What happens after? If the patient receives medical treatment, the chance of recurrence is reduced as they would be under the supervision of medical professionals. Unfortunately, for some, there are lingering effects of this traumatic experience that may lead to psychological complications. In a study conducted by researchers from Zayed University and University of Plymouth, among 94 people who have experienced anaphylaxis, more than half were found with high levels of PTSD symptoms. Experiencing anaphylaxis comes with the threat of death, and it is foreseeable that one may respond to this event with strong feelings. Some resort to avoidance behaviors, which in the long run may be beneficial since they are prone to avoiding their respective allergens, but it would be best to consult a professional to ensure a full recovery, not just physically.

Now what? It is known that prevention is better than cure, and this sentiment holds true when it comes to anaphylaxis. The best prevention in this situation is to avoid your respective allergens. This is easier said than done, but being cautious with what you consume or encounter, and being proactive by always assessing an item, would significantly reduce the chances of anaphylaxis from happening. If you know that you are at risk, always make sure to have epinephrine auto-injectors with you, and know how to use them. When Natalie encountered symptoms for anaphylaxis, epinephrine was administered to her, but unfortunately, due to improper timing, the treatment was ineffective. That is why it’s important to make sure that you completely understand the process, and ask questions to your medical provider when needed.

Having an action plan can be useful as well. The American Academy of Allergy Asthma & Immunology has provided a template that can be filled out with information needed in case anaphylaxis happens. Having this ready tells you and others what to do during a stressful moment, making your emergency treatment more effective.

Overall, anaphylaxis is a serious disease that unfortunately cannot be eradicated from this world. It is capable of taking lives at any moment, and it can be unpredictable. However, by being proactive with your own health and  preparing yourself for this scenario, you can increase your chances of getting through an anaphylactic experience and recovering completely.

Winzel Payumo

B.S. Psychobiology – Class of 2024