Understanding allergies and anaphylaxis
Knowing about allergies enables you to recognise the signs and symptoms of an allergic reaction.
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Definitions
Allergens – allergic triggers, which include airborne allergens (such as dust and pollen), food allergens, insect venom, medication, and rubber products
Allergy – occurs when the immune system reacts to an allergen in the environment. A reaction often occurs within minutes or up to a few hours after contact. It can range from mild, to severe, to life-threatening.
Anaphylaxis – the most severe form of allergic reaction, often affecting several parts of the body, including the respiratory system and/or the cardiovascular system. It can be caused by exposure to allergens such as food, insects, latex, or medication. Anaphylaxis is potentially life-threatening.
Anaphylaxis is always a medical emergency. An ambulance must be called and the child must see a doctor, even when an EpiPen has been used.
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Source: Ministry of Education
Allergens
Common causes of allergic reactions in New Zealand:
- Airborne triggers – dust mites, pollen, mould spores, allergens from cats and other furry or hairy animals, such as dogs, horses, rabbits, and guinea pigs
- Food allergens – any type of food can trigger an allergic reaction. The most common food allergens aremilk (dairy), eggs, peanuts, tree-nuts, seeds such as sesame seeds, soy, wheat, shellfish, and fish.
- Insect venom – bee and wasp stings
- Other triggers – medications, latex in rubber products.
Source: Allergy New Zealand
Food allergy and food intolerance
A food allergy is an abnormal immune system response to the introduction of a food, an ordinarily harmless substance, into the body. In some people a food allergy is life threatening.
A food intolerance does not involve the immune system. It does not cause severe allergic reactions (known as anaphylaxis). Reactions can be immediate or delayed for up to 20 hours after a food is eaten. These reactions are not the same as allergies, but may include:
- rashes and swelling of the skin
- asthma and a stuffy or runny nose
- irritable bowel symptoms, such as colic, bloating, and diarrhoea
- migraines, headaches, lethargy, and irritability.
Next steps
Return to the guide “Allergies and learning”
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