Precautions

Anyone who has had an anaphylaxis needs to be investigated so that the cause of the severe allergic reaction can be identified.

Precautionary measures can be taken by those who are at risk of anaphylaxis. They include:

• Avoiding known allergens.
• Carrying an emergency kit containing one's own medicines at all times and making sure one is familiar with how to use them.
• Ensuring that the medicines are easily accessible and that they are not past their expiry date.
• Inform others at home or work about the allergy, where the medicines are kept and how they are to be used.
• Wear a MedicAlert device or carry a document in the wallet or handbag so that emergency health care professionals can be made easily aware of one's medical condition.

After experiencing an anaphylaxis, the affected individual should always be vigilant.

It is unwise to make assumptions about future reactions, even if there has not been a severe reaction for a long time, as future reactions are unpredictable. They may be the same as or more or less severe than previous reactions.

Dr Milton Lum is member of the board of Medical Defence Malaysia. This article is not intended to replace, dictate or define evaluation by a qualified doctor. The views expressed do not represent that of any organization the writer is associated with.