If you've ever watched someone you know or a loved one experience Anaphylactic Shock, you know how frightening it can be. Luckily, you can save lives by becoming familiar with anaphylaxis symptoms, and learning how to apply emergency medication.

Anaphylactic shock occurs when the whole body reactions very severely to an allergen in an attempt to combat the irritant. The throat swells, airways in the lungs are constricted, and several of the body's system quit. Anaphylactic shock can be potentially deadly if not treated immediately.

Those that are vulnerable to Anaphylactic Shock are allergic to certain foods, chemicals, drugs, insect venom, or latex. According to the American Lung Association, if a person has a potentially fatal allergy or has had severe reactions to allergens in the past should always keep an anaphylaxis emergency kit close at hand.

If you know someone close to you who has serious allergies but not a kit, suggest visiting his or her physician and acquiring one. Hopefully, the doctor will be able to demonstrate how to use the kit properly, and then giving you a chance to try it for yourself. Use the kit only as the physician or pharmacist has directed.

Anaphylactic Shock Symptoms

Some anaphylactic shock symptoms will not be visible to those not experiencing it. For instance, the mouth and throat may begin to itch or tingle, or the person may become lightheaded or anxious. Some you will be able to see. Sudden hives, welts, or red blotches might appear on the skin, and the lips and face could swell. He or she may begin wheezing, or have trouble breathing. The person could suddenly have stomach cramps, or the throat may tighten up. Diarrhea or vomiting could occur, and farther along, blood pressure may fall. He or she might have trouble speaking or breathing, and possibly pass out.

While you are giving the person the emergency medication, tell someone else to call 911. If you're the only one around, administer the shot, then dial 911. While the symptoms should lessen or disappear, it is still important that the person visit the emergency room.

Injectable Epinephrine Kits

Always know where the kit is located. It is often compact enough that it can be carried in a knapsack, jacket pocket, or a purse. The kit will have either a syringe, where you can see the needle, or an auto-injector, where the needle is hidden in the black tip. Each version has epinephrine, an injectable medicine. The dosage contained in the shot is only enough for about 10-20 minutes of relief, enough to reach an emergency room. Regardless of which type of injector you have, follow these fundamental guidelines: