A woman in her 60s in Vietnam collapsed into a coma while chopping onions, local media reported.
According to VN Express and other regional news outlets, the incident occurred in Quang Ninh Province, northern Vietnam. The woman suddenly lost consciousness while preparing many onions at her home.
After being rushed to the hospital, doctors diagnosed her with respiratory failure, bilateral lung contraction, loss of ventilation, and widespread erythema.
Medical professionals speculate that the patient suffered an allergic reaction caused by inhaling gases emitted from the onions. They believe her extensive handling of the onions triggered an anaphylactic shock.
Anaphylactic shock is a severe allergic reaction that can affect the entire body, even with minimal exposure to the trigger.
The causes of anaphylaxis vary widely. In children and adolescents, common triggers include eggs, milk, walnuts, and wheat. Adults are more likely to react to shrimp, seafood, and wheat. Insect stings can also provoke anaphylaxis.
Certain medications, such as aspirin, other anti-inflammatory drugs, antibiotics, contrast agents, and chemotherapy drugs, are frequent culprits. Vaccines and food additives may also trigger reactions. Surprisingly, even physical exercise can induce anaphylaxis in some individuals.
Symptoms of anaphylaxis range from mild facial tingling or hives to more severe conditions such as a runny nose, nasal congestion, breathing difficulties, wheezing, and hypoxia.
A sudden drop in blood pressure can reduce blood flow to the brain, causing headaches, dizziness, and, in severe cases, loss of consciousness or involuntary urination. Severe swelling around the larynx can obstruct airways, potentially leading to suffocation.
Avoiding trigger foods entirely is the most effective way to manage food allergies. In case of accidental exposure and severe reactions, immediate emergency medical attention is critical. Individuals with severe allergies often carry epinephrine auto-injectors. Epinephrine, a hormone that activates the sympathetic nervous system, can rapidly alleviate symptoms of anaphylactic shock.
While prompt treatment usually leads to full recovery, delayed intervention can result in severe complications such as respiratory distress, dangerously low blood pressure, or even death.
