Anaphylactic Shock
Anaphylactic Shock - A sudden, severe allergic reaction.
Because some imaging procedures use contrast agents containing iodine, to which some people are allergic, this is the type of shock seen most frequently in radiographic imagng. The radiographer must be able to recognize it at its onset to prevent life-threatening consequences.
Anaphylactic shock (anaphylaxis) is the result of an exaggerated hypersensitivity reaction (allergic reaction) to re-exposure to an antigen that was previously encountered by the body's immune system.
Symptoms develop quickly, often within seconds or minutes and may include the following:
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Abdominal pain
- Abnormal (high-pitched) breathing sounds
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Anxiety
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Chest discomfort or tightness
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Cough
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Diarrhea
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Difficulty breathing
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Difficulty swallowing
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Dizziness
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Hives, itchiness
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Nasal congestion
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Nausea or vomiting
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Palpitations
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Skin Redness
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Slurred speech
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Swelling of the face, eyes, or tongue
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Unconsciousness
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Wheezing
Signs include:
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Abnormal heart rhythm
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Fluid in the lungs
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Hives
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Low blood pressure
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Mental confusion
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Rapid pulse
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Skin that is blue from lack of oxygen or pale from shock
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Swelling in the throat that may be severe enough to block the airway
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Swelling of the eyes or face
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Weakness
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Wheezing
Radiographer's Response -
1. Call for help
2. Check for open airway and breathing
3. Have allergy medication (usually benadryl) available for the physician
4. The patient should be supine
5. Elevate the head of the patient
6. Cover the patient with a blanket