Anaphylaxis and Anesthesia - know the triggers
Severe allergic reactions to anesthetic are rare and only occur in approximately 1 in 10,000 to 1 in 20,000 procedures in Australia.
During day surgery, other factors such as antibiotics, natural rubber latex and neuromuscular blocking agents are more likely to trigger an anaphylactic reaction than the anesthetic itself.
What happens if someone has an anaphylactic reaction from Anesthesia?
Severe allergies to anesthesia are a serious problem because it may be difficult for your anaesthesiologist to observe some of the usual early symptoms associated with anaphylaxis. Symptoms that may be difficult to detect include light headedness and shortness of breath.
Although some warning signs are hard to identify during anesthesia, anaesthesiologists are specially trained to recognise allergic reactions. If allergy symptoms, such as bronchospasm, swelling or hypotension, are detected your anesthesiologist will act quickly to establish the appropriate treatment. This treatment may include administration of epinephrine (adrenaline), the insertion of a breathing tube, or administration of intravenous fluids.
What do I do if I suspect I am allergic to anesthesia?
If you have experienced an allergic reaction to anesthetic or other medications in the past you should tell your anaesthetist. Your anaesthetist will then ensure that the substances you are allergic to are not used and will be prepared for a potential reaction.
During a typical general anesthetic, a variety of drugs are given. If you have an allergic reaction during surgery, tests will be carried out afterwards to determine what you are allergic to.
How can I have surgery if I am allergic to anesthesia?
Having an allergic reaction to one anesthetic drug does not mean you can never have an anesthetic again. If you or a family member have had an allergic reaction during surgery you should discuss this with your doctor and have tests to determine which substances you are actually allergic to.
For more information about anaphylaxis read ‘What is anaphylaxis’ or Guideline 9.2.7 by Australian Resuscitation Council.
Related Articles
Asthma, a chronic respiratory condition affecting millions worldwide, is often shrouded in myths and misconceptions. Despite how common it is, there is a distinct lack of common knowledge. This is leading to potential mismanagement and unnecessary anxiety for those living with asthma.
For many Australians, our city and outdoor lifestyles come with a hidden challenge – dust allergies. Dust mites, pollen, and other airborne particles can trigger allergic reactions, affecting a significant portion of the population.
If you suffer from pollen allergies, you know how miserable it can make you feel. Pollen allergies are caused by an overreaction of the body's immune system to the proteins found in the pollen of plants. Fortunately, there are a variety of treatments to manage pollen allergies, including medications, immunotherapy, and first aid.
The paper bag technique is known for a being one way to deal with panic attacks. It’s possible for a person to believe they are having a panic attack when they are actually experiencing an asthma attack, or a diabetic or cardiac problem. What would happen if they resort to paper bag technique?
Knowing the signs and symptoms of mild, moderate, and severe asthma attacks can help avoid an asthma emergency.
The EpiPen is an essential medical device used to treat severe allergic reactions and anaphylaxis. It delivers a fixed dose of adrenaline via intramuscular injection into the leg muscle, which helps combat anaphylactic symptoms such as low blood pressure and breathing difficulties. Adrenaline is a natural hormone that is produced by the body in response to an allergic reaction. Administering an EpiPen can reduce the risk of hospitalization and death if done early enough. It is important to know how to use an EpiPen correctly, as it can be administered by anyone, including those without medical training or self-administered. If you or someone you know is at risk of severe allergic reactions or anaphylaxis, it is essential to have an EpiPen on hand and to know how to use it in an emergency.
Anapen is an alternative treatment option to the Epipen. Although the two auto-injectors look similar, they have vastly different administration techniques. For this reason, it is important to know how to administer the new Anapen to prevent incorrectly administering the life-saving treatment. This guide will provide you with a comprehensive overview of the Anapen and how to administer it, as well as anaphylaxis first aid for Allergy Emergencies.
Asthma and anaphylaxis are serious medical conditions that can be life threatening if not managed properly. This article provides a step-by-step guide to recognizing the signs and symptoms of asthma and anaphylaxis, emergency first aid for asthma and anaphylaxis, preventing and managing asthma and anaphylaxis, and the importance of taking a first aid course for asthma and anaphylaxis management.
Australians are no strangers to asthma. With the ever-present pollen season, sufferers must take extra precautions to protect their health. Understanding asthma and the effects of pollen season in Australia can help sufferers better manage their condition. First aid tips, maintaining good health, and taking a first aid course can help save lives during asthma attacks. This article will delve into the specifics of battling asthma in Australia during pollen season.
Hay fever occurs when the immune system overreacts to a harmless environmental allergen. Chronic hay fever symptoms can lead to a reduced quality of life. Luckily, there are several natural remedies for the treatment of hay fever.