#62 - Why is anxiety around anaphylaxis so common?

Fear and anxiety are very common when managing food allergies and anaphylaxis. It can come from the unknown, where the allergen can show up. It can also come from the way your allergies are discussed.  How do you motivate patients to use their epinephrine without causing crippling anxiety?

Dr Golden joins us as we explore the delicate balance of doctors using fear to underscore the urgency of administering epinephrine during anaphylaxis. We discuss the crucial interplay between fear and anxiety, emphasizing the need for a sensitive approach to motivate patients to use their epinephrine without overwhelming those already grappling with anxiety. 

We discuss the mind-body connection and the similarities between anxiety attacks and allergic reactions when talking about anxiety caused by the fear of having an anaphylactic reaction. Dr. Golden also provides more information about the risk and co-factors associated with severe anaphylaxis.

What we cover in this episode about anxiety related to anaphylaxis:

• Balance of fear and anxiety to get patients to use Epinephrine 
• Mind-body connection around anxiety and anaphylaxis - anxiety attack’s similarity to a reaction 
• Environment allergies - why you do  not need to carry an Epinephrine device 
• Risk factors and co-factors of severe reaction 
• Epinephrine option for severe asthma

Helpful links:

• More about our guest Dr. David Golden
• What is Anaphylaxis? https://allergyasthmanetwork.org/anaphylaxis/
• What is Epinephrine? https://allergyasthmanetwork.org/anaphylaxis/what-is-epinephrine/
• What is a Food Allergy? https://allergyasthmanetwork.org/food-allergies/
• What If I Can’t Afford my Epinephrine Medication? https://allergyasthmanetwork.org/anaphylaxis/what-if-i-cant-afford-my-epinephrine/
• Episode sponsored by https://aquestive.com/anaphylm/.