Anaphylaxis and the immune system

The immune system normally protects the body. During anaphylaxis, an allergen can trigger immune cells to release chemical messengers, including histamine. These messengers may widen blood vessels, make fluid leak into tissues, tighten airway muscles, and stimulate mucus production. The result can be swelling, hives, wheezing, vomiting, dizziness, or collapse.

Skin changes are not required. A reaction may chiefly affect breathing or circulation, and symptoms can progress quickly after food, medicine, an insect sting, or another trigger. Allergy tests can sometimes help identify sensitisation, but results must be interpreted alongside the history of the reaction.

Use the prescribed adrenaline auto-injector immediately if anaphylaxis is suspected, following the personal action plan, and call UAE ambulance services. Inject into the outer thigh as the device instructions show. Keep the person lying flat; if breathing is difficult, let them sit with legs extended. Do not let them stand or walk. An asthma reliever does not replace adrenaline.

After recovery, an allergy specialist can review possible triggers, the timing of symptoms, medicines taken, and whether testing is useful. The visit should also cover auto-injector technique, avoidance measures, and a written emergency plan.

Treat sudden difficult or noisy breathing, throat or tongue swelling, wheezing, a hoarse voice, faintness, collapse, or rapidly worsening symptoms after a possible allergen as an emergency. Give prescribed adrenaline without waiting for a rash, then summon an ambulance. Hospital assessment is needed even if the person seems better because symptoms can return and further treatment may be required.

Ask which trigger is suspected, whether referral for allergy testing is appropriate, what symptoms should activate your emergency plan, and how to store and use your prescribed device. Also discuss asthma control, medicine allergies, school or workplace arrangements, and when the plan should be reviewed.