What should you know about anaphylaxis and anaphylactoid reactions?

The word “anaphylactoid” was historically used when a reaction did not appear to follow the classic allergy pathway. It should never be interpreted as meaning that the episode is minor.

Both patterns may produce throat or tongue swelling, hoarseness, wheezing, difficult breathing, dizziness, a sudden blood-pressure drop, collapse, hives, flushing, abdominal pain or vomiting. Severe anaphylaxis sometimes occurs without skin symptoms.

Modern terminology usually places non-allergic and allergic mechanisms under the broader diagnosis of anaphylaxis. Determining the pathway may matter during later investigation, but it does not change the need for immediate adrenaline when airway, breathing or circulation is threatened.

Use a prescribed adrenaline auto-injector in the outer mid-thigh as soon as anaphylaxis is suspected and call UAE emergency services. Tell the dispatcher about breathing, swelling, faintness or collapse and mention the possible trigger if known.

Position the person flat with raised legs unless breathing difficulty requires sitting with legs extended. Place an unconscious but breathing person on their side. Do not let them stand, walk or rely on an antihistamine while waiting for help. Follow their action plan if symptoms persist and another device is available.

Sudden noisy breathing, throat tightness, tongue swelling, marked breathlessness, confusion, faintness or collapse needs an ambulance. Rapid symptoms affecting several body systems after a possible exposure also warrant emergency assessment, even when the person initially seems stable.

Medical observation remains necessary after improvement because symptoms may return. Once recovered, the person should receive a written account of the episode and a plan for evaluating the likely trigger.

Request an explanation of the terminology used in your record, the suspected trigger, what must be avoided before testing and whether an adrenaline prescription is needed. Also ask how to share the emergency plan with family, school or workplace contacts who may need to respond.