Recognising the onset of anaphylaxis

Early features vary between people and between reactions. One person may first notice an itchy mouth and swelling after food; another may develop wheezing, a hoarse voice, abdominal cramps, vomiting, dizziness, or collapse. Hives and facial swelling can support recognition, yet anaphylaxis can present without any skin symptom. The key concern is rapid involvement of the airway, breathing, or circulation, especially after a likely allergen exposure.

At the first signs described in your emergency plan, give the prescribed adrenaline auto-injector into the outer thigh and contact UAE emergency services. Note the time it was given. Keep the person flat and do not let them walk; someone struggling to breathe may sit with legs outstretched. Use another prescribed device if symptoms do not improve or return, in line with the person's plan and emergency instructions. Begin CPR if the person becomes unresponsive and is not breathing normally.

Treat throat tightness, tongue swelling, laboured or noisy breathing, wheezing with distress, sudden severe dizziness, confusion, collapse, or a pale and floppy appearance in a child as an emergency. Do not drive yourself if symptoms are developing. An ambulance team can continue treatment while travelling. Hospital assessment is required after a suspected episode, including when the person appears to recover.

Request a personalised explanation of your earliest warning signs and practise with a trainer device. Clarify which exposures you need to avoid, how to read food or medicine labels, where injectors should be kept, and when replacements are due. Ask whether specialist allergy testing could identify the trigger and make sure family, school, or workplace contacts can follow the written action plan.