What should you know about epipen for anaphylaxis?

Anaphylaxis is a rapidly developing allergic emergency. It may involve breathing problems, wheezing, throat or tongue swelling, widespread skin symptoms, vomiting, dizziness or collapse. Adrenaline acts quickly to support the heart and circulation and reduce airway narrowing, but it does not remove the trigger or replace medical observation.

A Food Allergy can cause anaphylaxis, although reactions may also follow medicines, stings or other allergens. An auto-injector delivers a measured dose into the outer thigh. Use only the device prescribed for that person and keep it accessible rather than buried in a bag.

Give the injector at the first sign of a severe reaction, using the instructions on the device or the person's action plan. Call emergency services, explain that adrenaline has been given, and keep the person still. Lay them flat with legs raised if tolerated; let them sit if breathing is easier that way, but do not allow standing or walking. If symptoms have not improved or return, a further injector may be required according to emergency advice. Replace a used device and arrange follow-up to review the cause and technique.

Call emergency services immediately after using the injector, even if the reaction settles. Go to hospital for monitoring because anaphylaxis can recur. Treat sudden breathing difficulty, wheezing, facial or throat swelling, faintness or collapse as an emergency rather than waiting for a skin rash. If the person is unconscious and not breathing normally, follow dispatcher instructions and start resuscitation if trained.

What symptoms should trigger my injector? How do I recognise wheezing or throat swelling? Where should family, school or work colleagues keep the device? Do I need allergy testing or specialist follow-up after a reaction?