Anaphylaxis – Definition & Meaning

Conclusion

Anaphylaxis is a severe and potentially life-threatening allergic reaction that occurs when the immune system overreacts to a substance, such as food, medication, or insect venom. This condition can lead to a range of symptoms, including difficulty breathing, swelling of the face and throat, low blood pressure, and rapid heartbeat. In this article, we will explore the definition and meaning of anaphylaxis, its origins, and its associations.

Definitions

Anaphylaxis is defined as a severe and potentially life-threatening allergic reaction that occurs when the immune system overreacts to a substance. This reaction can happen within seconds or minutes of exposure to the allergen and can cause a range of symptoms, including difficulty breathing, swelling of the face and throat, low blood pressure, and rapid heartbeat.

Origin

The term anaphylaxis was first coined by the French physiologist Charles Richet in 1902. The word is derived from the Greek words ana, meaning “against,” and phylaxis, meaning “protection.” Richet used the term to describe a severe allergic reaction that occurred in dogs after they were repeatedly injected with a toxin.

Meaning in different dictionaries

Anaphylaxis is defined similarly in various dictionaries. According to Merriam-Webster, anaphylaxis is “a serious allergic reaction that is rapid in onset and may cause death.” The Oxford English Dictionary defines anaphylaxis as “an acute and severe allergic reaction to an antigen, especially one to which the body has become hypersensitive.”

Associations

Anaphylaxis is often associated with severe allergic reactions to foods, medications, and insect venom. Common allergens that can trigger anaphylaxis include peanuts, tree nuts, shellfish, milk, eggs, penicillin, and insect stings. Anaphylaxis can also occur as a result of exposure to latex, contrast dye used in medical imaging, and even exercise.

Synonyms

Synonyms for anaphylaxis include severe allergic reaction, anaphylactic shock, and anaphylactic response.

Antonyms

Antonyms of anaphylaxis include non-allergic reaction and tolerance.

The same root words

The same root words as anaphylaxis include phylaxis, meaning “protection,” and ana, meaning “against.”

Example Sentences

  • “The patient experienced anaphylaxis after eating a peanut butter sandwich.”
  • “The doctor administered epinephrine to the patient to treat their anaphylactic reaction.”
  • “It is important to carry an epinephrine auto-injector if you have a history of anaphylaxis.”

Anaphylaxis is a severe and potentially life-threatening allergic reaction that occurs when the immune system overreacts to a substance. This condition can lead to a range of symptoms, including difficulty breathing, swelling of the face and throat, low blood pressure, and rapid heartbeat. It is important to understand the definition and meaning of anaphylaxis, as well as its associations, in order to recognize and respond to this condition quickly and effectively.

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