As much as I talk about there being so much in nature’s bounty to help mitigate if not cure a person of the many ailments we can have with far fewer side-effects, there are some things that are just too much to be left to the less potent and subsequently slower acting natural remedies. Here is where high-tech conventional medicine shines in all its fast-acting synthetic glory.
These are the times in which herbs are just not enough:
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Anaphylaxis (an-a-fi-LAK-sis) is a serious, life-threatening allergic reaction most commonly experienced in reaction to foods, insect stings, medications and latex.
If you are allergic to a substance, your immune system overreacts to this allergen by releasing chemicals that cause allergy symptoms. Typically, these bothersome symptoms occur in one location of the body. However, some people are susceptible to a much more serious anaphylactic reaction. This reaction typically affects more than one part of the body at the same time.
Anaphylaxis or anaphylactic shock requires immediate medical treatment, including an injection of epinephrine and a trip to a hospital emergency room. If it isn’t treated properly, anaphylaxis can be fatal.
Certain people are more at risk of anaphylaxis. If you have allergies or asthma and have a family history of anaphylaxis, your risk is higher. And, if you’ve experienced anaphylaxis your risk of having another anaphylactic reaction is increased.
Accurate diagnosis and successful management of allergies is essential. An allergist / immunologist, often referred to as an allergist, has specialized training and experience to diagnose the problem and help you develop a plan to protect you in the future.
Symptoms
Symptoms of anaphylaxis typically start within 5 to 30 minutes of coming into contact with the allergen to which you are allergic. In some cases it may take more than an hour for you to notice anaphylactic symptoms.
Warning signs typically affect more than one part of the body and may include:
• Red rash, with hives/welts, that is usually itchy
• Swollen throat or swollen areas of the body
• Wheezing
• Passing out
• Chest tightness
• Trouble breathing
• Hoarse voice
• Trouble swallowing
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Stomach cramping
• Pale or red color to the face and body
• Feeling of impending doom
Diagnosis
To diagnose your risk of anaphylaxis or to determine whether previous symptoms were anaphylaxis-related, your allergist / immunologist will conduct a thorough investigation of all potential causes. Your allergist will ask for specific details regarding all past allergic reactions.
Treatment and Management
The best ways to manage your condition are:
• Avoid allergens that trigger your allergic reactions
• Be prepared for an emergency
If you are at risk of anaphylaxis, carry autoinjectable epinephrine (adrenaline). This is a single dose of medication that is injected into the thigh during an anaphylactic emergency.
It is important for you, family members and others in close contact with you to know how to use the autoinjector.
Complete an Anaphylaxis Action Plan and keep on file at work, school or other places where others may need to recognize your symptoms and provide treatment.
Important Reminder
If you think you are having an anaphylactic reaction, use your autoinjectable epinephrine and call 911 immediately. Your life depends on this. Don’t take an antihistamine or wait to see if symptoms get better.
Witches Of The Craft® 
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