Allergy Services
Allergic disease is on the increase in many westernised countries including Australia. Allergies can impact on many areas of an individuals lifestyle and quality of life. It is estimated that up to 2% of Australians including 1 in 20 children suffer from food allergies, some of these individuals will experience a life threatening reaction to food allergy called Anaphylaxis. (Anaphylaxis Australia Inc., 2008)
Anaphylaxis can also occur from insect stings and medications. In Australia each year approximately 10 people will die from an anaphylactic reaction.
Food allergy is an immune system response to food proteins that the body mistakes as being harmful. Individuals who are sensitised to certain food proteins when eaten trigger an immune system reaction which releases large doses chemicals that start a chain of symptoms that affect an individuals breathing, skin, heart and gastrointestinal tract.
The symptoms that surface after this chemical release can include the following:
- Swelling of lips, eyes and face
- Breathing difficulties
- Abdominal pain and vomiting
- Skin rashes (hives and welts)
The majority of food reactions are caused by foods such as Peanuts, Tree nuts, Fish, Crustacea, Eggs, Milk, Soy and Wheat. Insect allergy reactions are caused by bees and wasps, Medication reactions are caused by Penicillin based drugs and Anti-inflammatory medications.
Currently there is no cure for food allergy , avoidance is the only way to prevent a reaction. Adrenaline is also the only first line treatment for an individual in a severe reaction.
Anaphylaxis is a manageable condition getting specialist medical advice, a correct diagnosis , treatment options, learning what triggers an allergic reaction and how to use an Adrenaline Auto-Injector is of the utmost importance.
Anaphylaxis and Allergy Consultancy Services (AACS) specialises in educating carers, workplaces, and those who suffer from allergic disease. AACS employs nurses who are accredited providers in Anaphylaxis education. All sessions conducted include supervised practise in using adrenaline autoinjectors.
© Anaphylaxis and Allergy Consultancy Services
Last Updated: June 1st 2011
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