What it means
An immune response to an allergenAL-er-jenA substance that triggers an allergic reaction in a person whose immune system is sensitive to it.all/o other-gen something that producesFull entry , such as a drug, food, insect sting or latex. A mild reaction may be a rash, itching, hives, sneezing or watery eyes. A severe reaction, anaphylaxisan-uh-fuh-LAK-sisA sudden, severe allergic reaction that affects the whole body.ana- away, against-phylaxis protectionFull entry , affects the whole body: swelling of the throat, wheezing, low blood pressure and shock. A person must have met the substance before for the body to react.
For the nurse
If a reaction starts during a drug or blood infusion, stop it, stay with the client, keep the IV line open with saline and call for help. Check the airway and breathing first. Epinephrine is the first drug for anaphylaxis. Record the reaction and update the allergy list.
At a glance
| Spanish | reacción alérgica |
|---|---|
| Also written | allergic reactions |
Related terms
allergy
A reaction of the immune system to a substance that is harmless to most people.
anaphylaxis
A sudden, severe allergic reaction that affects the whole body.
hypersensitivity
An overreaction of the immune system to a substance that is usually harmless.
histamine
A chemical released by certain immune cells that widens blood vessels, makes them leaky and tightens airway muscles.
allergen
A substance that triggers an allergic reaction in a person whose immune system is sensitive to it.