Chapter 23 Flashcards
Allergic Reaction
An exaggerated response to a foreign substance.
Allergen
Any substance that causes an exaggerated physiological response (i.e. an allergic reaction).
First Exposure to Allergen
- The immune systems forms antibodies (i.e. blood proteins).
- Antibodies identify and attack (and combine with) the allergen.
Second (and Subsequent) Allergen Exposures
- Antibodies (from an earlier allergen exposure) remain within the bloodstream.
- The antibodies combine with the allergen (whenever present), which causes a release of histamine (and other chemicals) into the bloodstream.
- Certain chemicals (released in response to allergen exposure) cause harmful effects.
Effects of Histamide (and Other Allergy-Related Chemicals)
- Inflammation
- Bronchoconstriction
- Vasodilation
Anaphylaxis
A severe/life-threatening allergic reaction
Effects of Anaphylaxis
- Vasodilation (and subsequent Hypotension)
- Airway Swelling (and subsequent Airway Obstruction)
- Bronchoconstriction (and subsquent Respiratory Failure)
Skin-Associated Signs/Symptoms (of Allergic Reactions)
- Swelling
- Flushing (Red Skin)
- Warm + Tingling Feelings
Urticaria (Hives)
A raised and itchy rash that appears on the skin.
Angioedema
Painless swelling under the skin (that is caused by an allergic reaction).
Angioedema most often appears around the face and the lips.
Respiratory Signs/Symptoms (of Allergic Reactions)
- Tightness in Throat/Chest
- Cough
- Rapid/Labored/Noisy Breathing
- Hoarseness (or Muffled Voice or Loss of Voice)
- Stridor
- Wheezing
Cardiac Signs/Symptoms (of Allergic Reactions)
- Increased Heart Rate
- Decreased Blood Pressure
General Signs/Symptoms (of Allergic Reactions)
- Itchy/Watery Eyes + Runny Nose
- Headache
- Sense of Impending Doom
Signs/Symptoms of Anaphylactic Shock
- Altered Mental Status (AMS)
- Flushed/Dry Skin and/or Pale/Cool/Clammy Skin
- Nausea and/or Vomiting
- Changes in Vital Signs (e.g. Increased Pulse, Increased Respiratory Rate, Decreased Blood Pressure)
