You may be thinking – Anaphylactic Shock – that could never happen to me!

Many people think Anaphylaxis would never affect them

Would it surprise you to know – YES it could – at any time in your life, even if you have never experienced anaphylaxis before.

People often associate anaphylaxis to peanut allergy, however there are many other triggers

How is it even possible that you can experience Anaphylactic Shock at any age?

Whilst typically those with a family history of allergies are at higher risk, it can also impact a person who has never experienced allergies previously.

What is Anaphylaxis?

It is a severe allergic reaction. Most commonly it is an allergic response to:

• Insect stings (particularly bee and wasp stings)

Some people might be unaware that they may experience a severe allergy to insect bites/stings.

• Eating foods that are known to cause allergies (such as peanuts, tree nuts, shellfish, milk, fish, eggs and some fruits)

Eating some seafoods can cause a severe allergic reaction

• Medications such as some antibiotics and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs like aspirin.
• Latex has also been known to cause anaphylaxis. Whilst most may commonly associate latex to products like gloves, latex is also found in certain fruits such as avocado, kiwifruit, plums, strawberries, tomatoes and bananas. This is thought to be because the same protein that is found in latex that causes latex allergy is also present in these fruits.

This is why it is so important to know if people have allergies to Latex when presenting Latex products such as gloves as an option for P.P.E.

Alarmingly, there has even been an increase seen in people experiencing Anaphylaxis as a result from exercise/running or aerobic activity. I have personally met people during First Aid Training who have shared that they have experienced anaphylaxis after consuming alcohol.

Exercise such as running or aerobic activity has been known to bring on Anaphlyaxis (on rare occasions)

What are the symptoms?

Typically, a series of symptoms occur. This can be sudden onset or a gradual build of symptoms. In terms of time, it could occur almost immediately or appear over a longer period of time up to a few hours.

In rare cases, it can last up to several days.

You may see someone react by:

• The development of Skin rashes, including hives. They may have itchy, flushed or pale skin.

Skin rashes (including hives) may appear

• Blood Pressure may drop significantly
• Their tongue, airways and/or throat may constrict caused by swelling resulting in wheezing. They will appear to have difficulty in breathing – which may be fast, shallow breathing.

• Their pulse may weaken and become more rapid

Typically a series of symptoms occur – watch for difficulty in breathing and rapid pulse

• Some may also experience the onset of Nausea, vomiting or diarrhoea
• Feeling lightheaded or faint.

A person may begin to feel dizzy or light-headed

• Facial Swelling, including swelling of the lips and eyelids.

Can Anaphylaxis be dangerous?

The short answer is yes!

Anaphylaxis can be dangerous and can easily result in Anaphylactic Shock

Blood pressure drops suddenly and the airways narrow when you suffer from an anaphylactic shock. This may result in blocking the airway, making it very difficult to breathe normally.

The key is immediate treatment, otherwise it can result in very serious complications and has the potential to become life-threatening.

It is possible that it can stop your heart, with fatal consequences. If a person stops breathing, then CPR will need to be performed.

What is the treatment? How can you help?

1. Quick action will help enormously. Time is of the essence. Look for the symptoms

2. Ask the person if they have an Epi-pen to treat the allergic reaction

3. If the person says they need an Auto injector (such as an Epi-pen, ask for their consent to administer the injection).

4. Get the Epi-pen and remember this chant – “Blue to the Sky, Orange to the thigh” – This means pull the blue lid off (safety tip) and the orange part will be what is injected. Best to administer an Epi-pen whilst they are laying down. If the person is having trouble breathing in this position, then sit them up slightly.

Remember the chant – ‘Blue to the sky, orange to the thigh’

5. Aim the orange tip towards the middle of the outer thigh (on the upper leg). Push the auto-injector firmly into the outer thigh until you hear it “click”. This indicates that the adrenaline injection has begun. Count slowly to 3 (e.g. 1001, 1002, 1003). This will allow sufficient time to ensure the medication has been administered. Use the thigh rather than other muscles as this body part will allow much faster absorption to allow a quicker response.

IMPORTANT NOTE: You don’t need to remove their clothing to administer the Epi-pen. It shall go through clothing (however not through the seams of jeans). Check that there is nothing in their pockets before administering.

6. Seek medical treatment immediately after administering the Epi-pen. The person will need to be monitored as there can be ongoing symptoms to the allergic reaction. The results of using an Epi-pen are rapid, however not long lasting. It is like a ‘bandaid’, only buying you 5 – 15 minutes in time. If possible, seek out a second Epi-pen so that you are fully prepared in the event that the casualty’s reaction and/or breathing becomes severe again and potentially if emergency services are delayed.

Always seek emergency treatment by calling Triple 0 (000) even if the person appears to have recovered.

Always seek emergency treatment by calling Triple 0 (000)

What happens if the Epi-pen has expired?

Epi-pens have expiry dates labelled on the pen. They contain a fluid, which should appear to be clear. If the pen is expired and it is the only one available, use it anyway and inform the 000 operator.

Check the expiry date on the Epi-pen

Let’s hear first hand from Alex who has had anaphylactic reactions in the past.

When did you first learn that you had allergies that could result in anaphylaxis?

I was only about 9 or 10 years old. I picked up a ball and put it to my mouth. My lips began to tingle and then my mouth began to swell. The school rang the ambulance. They rang my dad, who got to the school quickly. They put me in an ambulance and another ambulance met us en-route to the hospital. They were worried they may have to perform a tracheotomy, but luckily they didn’t have to. My face swelled very, very badly (like a huge balloon!) and stayed that way for a couple of days. I have had a number of episodes over the years.

How did you feel about this when you found out?

I was fairly young and didn’t really know what was happening to be honest. I relied on my dad for support.

What triggers an Anaphylactic shock for you?

I have seen a specialist and it is unknown what I react to. I have had a lot of tests and nothing shows up as to what causes the anaphylaxis. The specialist thought it would be latex for sure but wasn’t. I would like to know what causes it, as think it might be easier to manage.

What has been the scariest moment for you?

The last time I had this, I reacted at work and I didn’t have my Epi-pen on me that day. When I felt my eye begin to twitch, I knew I needed help fast and tried to explain to people at work what was happening. They just thought I was messing around. When they realised what was happening, they called for immediate medical help and an Epi-pen was administered but it didn’t work. An ambulance was called and they eventually got me to hospital and I was admitted.

What do you want people to know about Anaphylactic shock?

It can happen anytime and it’s really scary. I think more awareness in workplaces would be good.

Who do you rely on to support you?

My dad, best mate and my doctor are great supports.

Why should everyone be aware of the ‘Blue to the Sky, Orange to the Thigh’ campaign for use of Epi-pens?

A simple way to remember what to do and how to use an Epi-pen.

Why do you believe everyone in a workplace should be made aware of an Epi-pen and its use?

The quicker you act, the better the outcome.

Any other thoughts or comments you would like to share to raise awareness of Anaphylaxis?

This can happen to anyone, anytime.

Why do YOU need to know about Anaphylaxis?

You heard it, this could happen to anyone at any time, whether you are at the gym, at work, out and about in the community. This COULD happen to you!

As time is critical to the outcome, it is very important that we all understand the message of “Blue to the Sky, Orange to the Thigh” . This could be life-saving.

We proudly offer allergy awareness training to educate our younger generation and make them aware of how it may affect them and what they can do if they witness an anaphylactic reaction with a friend!!

A fantastic 30-40 minute program educating students about asthma, anaphylaxis and CPR, a fun and interactive session. (non accredited)​​

Program inclusions:

• Signs and Symptoms
• First Aid Management
• D.R.S.A.B.C.D.
• CPR practice on mannequins

If you want to know more about First Aid and learn the skills to save a life, we are here to help you.

DOWNLOAD YOUR FREE ANAPHYLAXIS FACT SHEET

Book a course today!

The post Anaphylactic Shock – Could it happen to you? appeared first on FAST Training Australia.

You have landed on this blog because you want to know more about Asthma and treatment?!

It is a medical condition that affects the airways. Approximately 2.7 million Aussies are affected (1). It isn’t something that ‘is in your head’ as some people may have you believe.

It is not a psychological condition; it is a medical one.

The common symptoms you may see are:

• wheezing,
• shortness of breath,
• coughing,
• chest tightness
• fatigue (2)

These symptoms are brought on by the narrowing of the airways.

For people who are afflicted, the actual physical narrowing of the airways is what causes the difficulty to breathe.

Can you imagine how that would feel to have your airways restricted and feeling as if you were unable to breathe?

Many people also think asthma is related to a childhood condition and as you grow up, you simply grow out of it. That is not accurate, there is no cure, and whilst many may appear to have symptoms that seem to dissipate as they become an adult, it may be just a case of better management, a healthier lifestyle, and regular medical reviews.

Whilst a person may have many years of being seemingly asthma-free it may return at any time to varying degrees; however, it is a condition that remains with you for life. Equally, you may find that as an adult you may experience adult on-set Asthma, even though you never experienced it as a child.

Whilst it is a life-long condition and may affect people very differently, it can generally be well controlled.

There is an ongoing myth that exercise is not good for managing asthma and may in fact bring it on. It is true that some types of physical activity may trigger an asthma flare-up or attack, but this shouldn’t be reason to avoid a fit and healthy lifestyle.

I know many people who have struggled with this very common medical condition growing up and they found certain types of exercise such as swimming, was an ideal exercise for them to better manage their condition. I would encourage you to explore what works for you.

What causes asthma?

The causes are not known, however there are many common triggers that have been identified such as:

·Environmental triggers – such as exposure to:

• chemicals,
• smoke,
• air pollution,
• dust,
• grasses,
• pollens,
• mould (think about the effect of the recent flooding in Australia and the ongoing impact of mould)
• change in the weather has impact – e.g., heat, cold and thunderstorms

The environment can trigger an asthma flare up

· Physical triggers – such as:

• exercise,
• being obese (thought to cause increased inflammation)
• allergies (which may run in your family)
• our sweet pets!

Whilst excercise can trigger asthma – it shouldn’t be excluded from your life. Find what works for you

What other triggers are happening in Australia?

Thunderstorm asthma

We saw this occur in Victoria where a serious thunderstorm asthma epidemic was triggered in Melbourne. A combination of very high pollen counts mixed with abnormal weather conditions. Hasn’t the east coast of Australia felt these crazy abnormal weather conditions!

The resultant mix of storm and pollen count saw emergency departments overrun with thousands of casualties and sadly 10 deaths. That must have been truly frightening and devastating for those families and communities affected. This helps us to understand we should take our approach seriously and to also look closely to asthma first aid treatment very seriously.

Whilst excercise can trigger asthma – it shouldn’t be excluded from your life. Find what works for you

Education for everyone is crucially important

COVID-19 impacts

Since the start of the pandemic the messaging has been the same – if you have severe or uncontrolled asthma it may be a factor that worsens COVID-19 outcomes. The key here is keeping things well-controlled. Ideally you should be following an asthma plan and have consistent medical reviews with your doctor.

Asthma first aid treatment (including some First Aid hacks)

Let’s get real – Many people don’t carry a puffer, let alone a spacer or follow their asthma Management plan (or even have a plan!)

How can someone help, when you can only get 1- 2 words out per breath?

Getting access to reliever medication is crucial:

Using Ventolin without a spacer:

• This is okay for a mild attack
• Up to 50% of the medication hits the back of the throat and goes into the stomach.

Why should you use a spacer? (A spacer is a large plastic container with a mouthpiece at one end and a hole for the inhaler at the other)

• The casualty will get the full dose – in slow and measured breaths.
• Spacers are getting smaller, you can even purchase pop up disposable spacers

What if you don’t have a spacer and need to improvise!

• Jab the puffer through a hole in the bottom of a disposable cup and you have a spacer! You can do the same with a water bottle.

What do you need to know about asthma first aid?

It is critically important that First aiders at workplaces or school staff be trained to manage a medical emergency. Children may experience a flare-up or attack and have never shown a symptom previously!

It can be very serious.

Let’s look at the steps for treatment…..

• Sit the casualty down and try and get them to calm
• Put the ventolin/asmol puffer into the spacer and give it a shake
• Ask the casualty to take 4 breaths
• Then repeat the process 3 more times
• Then wait 4 minutes, if they are not getting relief, call 000 and repeat the process

1 X SHAKE,
4 BREATHS,
4 TIMES,
WAIT 4 MINUTES

Let F.A.S.T. help your business with your First Aid Training.

We also deliver HLTAID012 – First Aid in an Education and Childcare Setting

Contact us to book in for your course today.

Be sure to download our First Aid Fact Sheet about treatment to keep at the ready.

If you want more information, check out the National Asthma Council Australia website and our blog – 10 Shocking Facts about Asthma

DOWNLOAD FIRST AID FACT SHEET

References:

1. 2017–18 Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) National Health Survey (NHS) (ABS 2018)

2. National Asthma Council of Australia – 2019a

The post Asthma Treatment – What you need to know appeared first on FAST Training Australia.

Asthma is a serious and often misunderstood condition that affects millions of Australians every day. In support of National Asthma Awareness Week, we’re sharing 10 eye-opening facts that highlight the importance of asthma management, first aid knowledge, and taking action early. Plus, don’t miss our FREE Asthma Facts Sheet download below to boost your knowledge and help keep yourself and others safe.

This week is National Asthma Awareness week, helping Australians to learn more about Asthma and its management. We are going to reveal some shocking facts about asthma. Download our FREE ASTHMA Facts Sheet – see below

Asthma – did you know?

1. Asthma can develop at any age. – 

That’s right – even if there have never been any symptoms before.

2. Australia has one of the highest prevalence rates of Asthma in the world!

We certainly live in a gorgeous country and is aplenty with a variety of immune triggers such as pollen, dust, smoke and air pollutants that can provoke an Asthma flare-up.

3. 389 Australians died from Asthma in 2018.

Asthma can usually be controlled. It takes good management, an effective Asthma action plan and of course, appropriate medication. However, the sad reality is, Asthma can be fatal. It is imperative you know how to treat an attack and manage Asthma.

4. One in 9 Australians are affected by Asthma.

That is about 2.7 million Aussies!

5. Indigenous Australians are nearly twice as likely to have Asthma.

Asthma is the second most commonly reported health condition in the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander population.

6. Asthma is more common in boys than girls aged 0-14.

Yet is more common in females aged 15 and over.

7. An Asthma attack can be triggered by exposure to an allergen, such as a tree, grass or weeds, pollen, dust mites, cockroaches or animal dander.

Other common triggers are irritants in the air, such as smoke or chemical fumes, and strong odours, such as perfume.

8. Women living in remote areas are more likely to have Asthma than women living in cities.

Isn’t that surprising. It is thought this may be due to differences in smoking rates, access to health services, or other social and environmental factors.

9. During 2017 – 2018, a whopping 38,792 Australians were hospitalised for Asthma related problems.

Approximately 80% of the hospitalisations were preventable.

10. Almost half (44%) of the hospitalisations were children aged between 0-14.

That’s a lot of kids heading to hospital!

These 10 facts about Asthma are some very scary statistics!

Would you know what to do to help someone during an Asthma attack?

Let’s talk Asthma First Aid (including some hacks).

Many people don’t carry a puffer, let alone a spacer or follow their Asthma Management plan (or even have a plan!)

How can someone help, when you can only get 1- 2 words out per breath?

Using Ventolin without a spacer:

• This is okay for a mild attack
• Up to 50% of the medication hits the back of the throat and goes into the stomach.

Why should you use a spacer? (A spacer is a large plastic container with a mouthpiece at one end and a hole for the inhaler at the other)

• The casualty will get the full dose – in slow and measured breaths.
• Spacers are getting smaller, you can even purchase pop up disposable spacers

What if you don’t have a spacer and need to improvise!

• Jab the puffer through a hole in the bottom of a disposable cup and you have a spacer! You can do the same with a water bottle.

What do you need to know about Asthma First Aid?

It is critically important that First aiders at workplaces or school staff be trained to manage a medical emergency, such as an Asthma attack. Children may experience an Asthma attack and have never shown a symptom previously! It can be very serious.

Is your team ready?

Let’s look at the steps to Asthma First Aid…..

• Sit the casualty down and try and get them to calm
• Put the ventolin/asmol puffer into the spacer and give it a shake
• Ask the casualty to take 4 breaths
• Then repeat the process 3 more times
• Then wait 4 minutes, if they are not getting relief, call 000 and repeat the process

1 X SHAKE, 4 BREATHS, 4 TIMES, WAIT 4 MINUTES

If you have Asthma and want to do a quick check of how well you are managing it, have a look at the control test on the Asthma Australia website.

Let F.A.S.T. help your business with your First Aid Training including first aid for Asthma.

We also deliver HLTAID012 – First Aid in a Childcare Setting

Contact us to see how we can help.

Please share these 10 Facts about Asthma. Let’s help as many people to learn about Asthma and its treatment.

Download the First Aid Fact Sheet for Emergency Asthma Treatment today.

Facts primarily resourced from: Asthma Australia – the nations’ peak consumer Asthma body.

The post Asthma Awareness Week: 10 Shocking Facts You Need to Know appeared first on FAST Training Australia.