Managing Malignant Hyperthermia: The Essential Role of Dantrium
What is Malignant hyperthermia? Malignant Hyperthermia (MH) is a life-threatening condition triggered by certain anesthetic drugs which maybe administered during medical procedures. This severe reaction is caused by specific anesthetic gases, which are commonly used to numb the body and block pain, sometimes in combination with muscle relaxants that temporarily paralyze the muscles for the duration of the procedure. 1 Impact of Malignant Hyperthermia on a person's life: Individuals prone to malignant hyperthermia, when exposed to these drugs, have a severe reaction which may lead to a rapid increase in heart rate and body temperature, a condition known as hyperthermia. In addition to this, they may experience quick and shallow breathing, muscle rigidity and an increase in acid levels in the blood and tissues (acidosis). It maybe fatal without an intervention. Symptoms to look out for: 1, 2 1. Rapid & shallow breathing . 2. Elevated ETCO2 (End-tidal Carbon Dioxide) ...