blood

blood

  • Submitted By: kole2
  • Date Submitted: 11/20/2014 10:56 PM
  • Category: Science
  • Words: 389
  • Page: 2


Blood is the only liquid tissue in the body. Blood is a specialized connective tissue that consists of blood cells (red blood cells, white blood cells and platelets) suspended in an extracellular fluid, known as plasma. Blood accounts for about 7% to 8% of total body weight. The total volume of blood in the average adult is about 5 to 6 liters, and it circulates throughout the body within the confines of the circulatory system. Because blood circulates throughout the body, it is an ideal vehicle for transport of materials to and from the many cells of the body.

Anaphylactic (systemic) reaction Anaphylaxis is a systemic life threatening hypersensitivity reaction characterized by widespread edema, vascular shock secondary to vasodilation, and difficulty breathing. It results from the presence of antigen introduced by injection, insect sting, or absorption across the epithelial surface of the skin or gastrointestinal mucosa. The level of severity depends on the level of sensitization. Even small amounts of antigen, such as the presence of residual amounts of peanuts that remain on equipment used for preparing foods containing peanuts, can be sufficient to cause anaphylaxis in an extremely sensitive person. Within minutes after exposure, itching, hives and skin erythema develop, followed shortly by bronchospasm and respiratory distress. Vomiting, abdominal cramps, diarrhea, and laryngeal edema and obstruction follow, and the person may go into shock and die within the hour.
The initial management of anaphylaxis focuses on establishment of a stable airway and intravenous access, and administration of epinephrine. Persons with a history of anaphylaxis should be provided with preload epinephrine syringes and instructed in their use. They should also be instructed to seek immediate professional help regardless of the initial response to self-treatment. Family members and caregivers of young children should be trained to inject epinephrine. Prevention of...

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