TUESDAY, Oct. 8, 2024 (HealthDay News) --- The recent approval of a new epinephrine nasal spray gives patients a powerful new way to keep life-threatening allergic reactions at bay. But that doesn't mean folks no longer have to worry about anaphylaxis.
According to the American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology , anaphylaxis can occur within minutes of exposure to an allergen. Common triggers include certain foods, medications, insect stings and latex, though it can also occur due to exercise or unknown causes. The symptoms of anaphylaxis escalate rapidly, involving multiple body systems and requiring immediate medical intervention.
Epinephrine, also known as adrenaline, is the first-line treatment for anaphylaxis. Anaphylaxis occurs when the immune system overreacts to a harmless substance by releasing chemicals that trigger inflammation and swelling throughout the body. Key symptoms of anaphylaxis include: The rapid onset of symptoms and the involvement of the cardiovascular, respiratory and gastrointestinal systems make anaphylaxis a medical emergency.
The speed at which anaphylaxis progresses means that immediate action is crucial. Every minute counts in preventing more severe complications, such as shock, cardiac arrest or death. Epinephrine -- given via an auto injector or by nasal spray -- is the only medication that can act quickly enough to reverse the symptoms in time.
Epinephrine is the most effective treatment for anaphylaxis because it counteracts the sev.