Kounis Syndrome: When Allergies Meet Heart Disease.
Kounis Syndrome: When Allergies Meet Heart Disease.
Kounis syndrome is a rare condition that links allergies with heart disease. Triggers like bee stings or unnecessary antibiotic use can cause a severe allergic reaction affecting the coronary arteries. This reaction may lead to narrowing or blockage of the arteries, resulting in symptoms similar to angina or heart attacks.
How Does It Happen?
When the body is exposed to allergens, chemicals like histamine are released, causing the coronary arteries to constrict and chest pain to occur. In severe cases, the reaction can lead to a complete artery blockage.
Symptoms and Treatment
Symptoms include sharp chest pain and difficulty breathing, alongside allergic signs such as rashes. Treatment involves controlling the allergic reaction with epinephrine and corticosteroids, along with heart treatments to prevent complications.
Remember, prevention starts with avoiding known allergens, especially with a previous medical history, to steer clear of this serious condition.
Dr Jamal Dabbas
