What should you know about anaphylaxis?

Anaphylaxis can affect breathing, circulation, skin, and the digestive system. Possible signs include swelling of the lips or tongue, wheezing, tightness in the throat, widespread hives, repeated vomiting, dizziness, or collapse. Symptoms may begin soon after exposure to a food, medicine, insect sting, or another trigger.

A person with Food Allergy may be at risk, but anaphylaxis can occur after other exposures too. A rash is not required; a serious breathing or circulation problem can happen without obvious skin changes.

Use the person’s prescribed adrenaline device immediately if anaphylaxis is suspected, following its instructions. Call emergency services, state that anaphylaxis is suspected, and keep the person lying down unless breathing is easier sitting. Do not let them stand or walk. If symptoms continue and another device is available as prescribed, follow the emergency plan.

After recovery, arrange medical review to identify the trigger and create a written plan. Allergy Testing may help with that assessment.

Get emergency help for any sudden breathing difficulty, throat swelling, faintness, severe wheezing, or rapidly worsening reaction after a possible allergen. Wheezing can be a warning sign, but waiting for symptoms to become severe is unsafe. Emergency observation is needed because symptoms can return after initial improvement.

What triggers should I avoid? When should I use adrenaline? Should I carry more than one device? Who should be taught my emergency plan, and when do I need specialist testing?