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School Clinic Operations

Allergic Reactions

Hypersensitivity commonly known as Allergic Reactions (HR) are immune


responses that are exaggerated or inappropriate against an antigen or
allergen.

Type

Type I
Type II
Type III

These hypersensitivity reactions are known as immediate


hypersensitivity reactions (IHR)
Because they occur within 24 hours

Antibodies including IgE, IgM, and IgG mediate them

Type I or Anaphylactic Response - Commonly Encountered

The anaphylactic response is mediated by IgE antibodies

in response to environmental proteins (allergens) such as pollens, animal danders, or dust mites.

Type I hypersensitivity reactions seen in:

bronchial asthma

allergic rhinitis

allergic dermatitis

food allergy

allergic conjunctivitis

anaphylactic shock – MOST SEVERE FORM, LIFE THREATENING

Anaphylaxis

medical emergency

can lead to acute, life-threatening respiratory failure.

most severe form of an allergic reaction

severe cases cause:

intense bronchospasm – Difficulty of Breathing

laryngeal edema – LargeS wollen, Red Tonsils, Difficulty Swallowing


https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30020687/, https://www.mountsinai.org/health-library/injury/allergic-
reactions, https://www.freepik.com/free-vector/set-allergy-symptoms-cartoon-
illustration_18734019.htm#query=allergic%20reaction&position=1&from_view=keyword
cyanosis – Bluish Coloration

hypotension – Low Blood Pressure

shock – Circulatory Collapse, Rapid Heart Beat, Shallow Barely Palpable Pulse

Allergic Bronchial Asthma

characterized by bronchospasm

Allergic Rhinitis

responsible for rhinorrhea, sneezing, and nasal obstruction

Nasal polyps may be seen in chronic rhinitis

Allergic Conjunctivitis

presents with rhinitis

Itching and eye problems including:

Watering

Redness

swelling

Food Allergy

more frequent in children as seen in cow's milk allergy

Food allergy symptoms mostly affect:

respiratory tract

skin

gastro intestinal tract

Atopic Eczema

Affects the skin and presents as pustules with redness, itchiness and swelling

Drug Allergy

Could present as as pustules with redness, itchiness and swelling

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30020687/, https://www.mountsinai.org/health-library/injury/allergic-
reactions, https://www.freepik.com/free-vector/set-allergy-symptoms-cartoon-
illustration_18734019.htm#query=allergic%20reaction&position=1&from_view=keyword
Symptoms

Common symptoms of a mild allergic reaction include:

 Hives (especially over the neck and face)

 Itching

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30020687/, https://www.mountsinai.org/health-library/injury/allergic-
reactions, https://www.freepik.com/free-vector/set-allergy-symptoms-cartoon-
illustration_18734019.htm#query=allergic%20reaction&position=1&from_view=keyword
 Nasal congestion, Runny Nose, (Clear, Watery) Sneezing

 Rashes

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30020687/, https://www.mountsinai.org/health-library/injury/allergic-
reactions, https://www.freepik.com/free-vector/set-allergy-symptoms-cartoon-
illustration_18734019.htm#query=allergic%20reaction&position=1&from_view=keyword
 Watery, red eyes

Symptoms of a moderate or severe reaction include:

 Abdominal pain
 Abnormal (high-pitched)breathing sounds
 Anxiety
 Chest discomfort or tightness
 Cough
 Diarrhea
 Difficulty breathing, wheezing
 Difficulty swallowing
 Dizziness or lightheadedness
 Flushing or redness of the face
 Nausea or vomiting
 Palpitations
 Swelling of the face, eyes, or tongue
 Unconsciousness

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30020687/, https://www.mountsinai.org/health-library/injury/allergic-
reactions, https://www.freepik.com/free-vector/set-allergy-symptoms-cartoon-
illustration_18734019.htm#query=allergic%20reaction&position=1&from_view=keyword
First Aid

For a mild to moderate reaction:

Calm and reassure the person having the reaction. Anxiety can make symptoms worse.

Try to identify the allergen and have the person avoid further contact with it.

1. If the person develops an itchy rash, apply cold compresses


2. Watch the person for signs of increasing distress.
3. Get medical help. For a mild reaction, a health care provider may recommend over-the-
counter medicines, such as antihistamines.

For a severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis):

Check the person's airway, breathing, and circulation (the ABC's of Basic Life Support). A
warning sign of dangerous throat swelling is a very hoarse or whispered voice, or coarse sounds
when the person is breathing in air. If necessary, begin rescue breathing and CPR.

1. Contact Nearest Department of Health Facility


2. Calm and reassure the person.
3. Avoid oral medicine if the person is having difficulty breathing. 
4. Take steps to prevent shock. Have the person lie flat, raise the person's feet about 12
inches (30 centimeters), and cover them with a coat or blanket.
5. Do not place the person in this position if a head, neck, back, or leg injury is suspected or
if it causes discomfort.

What to give:

Clinic teacher may give after proper referral to Nurse II in charge of district or
Division Medical Officer III.

1. Cetirizine 5mg/5ml
 5 ml once daily 4 to 6 years old
 10 ml once daily for 7 to 12 years old
2. Cetirizine 10 mg/Tablet 1 Tablet Once Daily
3. Chlorphenamine Maleate 2 mg/5 ml
 5 ml every 4 – 6 hours as needed
4. Chlorphenamine Maleate 4 mg/Tablet
 1 Tablet every 4 – 6 hours as needed

If symptoms worsen refer to nearest DOH Health Facility

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30020687/, https://www.mountsinai.org/health-library/injury/allergic-
reactions, https://www.freepik.com/free-vector/set-allergy-symptoms-cartoon-
illustration_18734019.htm#query=allergic%20reaction&position=1&from_view=keyword

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