Allergens that can cause anaphylaxis

Food triggers can include peanuts, tree nuts, milk, egg, fish, shellfish, sesame and wheat. Antibiotics and other medicines, bee or wasp stings, and natural rubber latex are other recognised triggers. Exercise or another cofactor can sometimes contribute, and a trigger is not always identified.

Anaphylaxis is a rapidly developing severe allergic reaction that can affect breathing or circulation. It may cause throat or tongue swelling, a hoarse voice, wheezing, persistent cough, breathing difficulty, dizziness, collapse, or pale and floppy behaviour in a child. Hives, flushing, swelling, vomiting or abdominal pain may occur, but skin changes can be absent.

A previous mild reaction does not reliably predict the severity of a future exposure. The appearance of airway, breathing or circulation symptoms after a possible allergen is what makes the situation urgent.

Use an adrenaline auto-injector immediately if one has been prescribed and the symptoms fit the person’s emergency plan, then call UAE emergency services. Lie the person flat with legs raised unless breathing is difficult; if so, allow a supported sitting position. Do not let them stand or walk. A pregnant person should lie on their left side.

If symptoms continue and a second prescribed injector is available, follow the timing in the emergency plan or the emergency call handler’s instructions. Antihistamines do not replace adrenaline for breathing or circulation problems. Medical observation is needed even if the person improves.

Treat sudden throat tightness, tongue swelling, noisy or difficult breathing, wheezing, persistent cough, faintness, collapse or confusion after a possible exposure as an emergency. Do not wait for a rash or attempt to travel without emergency support when severe symptoms are developing.

Ask which history and allergy tests can help identify the trigger, how to read ingredient labels, whether cofactors matter, how many auto-injectors to carry, and when devices expire. Practise injector technique and share the written action plan with family, school or colleagues.