Anaphylaxis is an allergic reaction that can be life-threatening. It can result from an allergy, when your body sends out an immune response to a substance that is harmless to most people. If you are allergic to corn, which an uncommon allergy, according to the Food Allergy & Anaphylaxis Network, you need to read labels carefully to be sure you are not exposed to the allergen. As soon as you suspect that you may be having an anaphylactic reaction, get emergency medical help.
Anaphylaxis Symptoms
An anaphylactic reaction can start within minutes of corn exposure or may take up to two hours to develop. It may affect any or all body systems. Symptoms include abdominal pain, diarrhea, vomiting, cough, difficulty breathing, wheezing, swelling of the tongue or throat, difficulty swallowing, a rash, heart palpitations, anxiety and confusion. These symptoms may start out mild, then rapidly escalate into a life-threatening condition. You may lose consciousness or go into shock.
Anaphylaxis Treatment
If you begin to experience what you think is your first anaphylactic reaction, do not delay to see if your symptoms get better on their own. Call 911 or have someone drive you to the emergency room. Once you have one anaphylactic reaction, your doctor will give you an epi-pen, which is an injectable form of epinephrine. Epinephrine keeps your heart beating and temporarily relieves symptoms of anaphylaxis. When needed, inject the epinephrine as directed by your doctor, and then call 911. If your doctor has recommended that you also take an antihistamine, take it as well. Symptoms may recur within a few hours, so it is imperative that you get medical help as quickly as possible.
Prevention
The best way to prevent anaphylaxis due to a corn allergy is to read all food labels carefully. Look for and avoid ingredients such as high fructose corn syrup, cornstarch and unidentified sugars, which may be corn-based. Let any doctor that you see know you have a severe corn allergy, as some medications contain corn. Corn may also be an ingredient in some intravenous solutions, so if you are hospitalized or must have surgery, talk to the doctor about your allergy.
Management
After your first anaphylactic reaction, you should see an allergist to determine exactly what you are allergic to. Do not assume that you know that you are allergic to corn, because other additives and ingredients that you consumed may have been responsible for your reaction. Testing may include blood testing or skin testing. Get all of your allergist's instructions in writing, and carry them with you, along with your epi-pen and, if needed, antihistamine. Wear a medical alert bracelet to let others know about your allergy; this way, if you lose consciousness, the medical responders will know what treatment to use.
Member Comments