How quickly does anaphylaxis emergency treatment relieve facial swelling?

Facial swelling after food, medicine, an insect sting, or another exposure may be part of a severe allergic reaction. Swelling can involve the lips, tongue, mouth, or throat and may affect the airway. Adrenaline is the first emergency treatment when anaphylaxis is suspected; other medicines may be added by emergency clinicians. Visible improvement does not prove the reaction has ended, because symptoms can change after the first response.

Use the prescribed adrenaline auto-injector without delay when anaphylaxis is suspected, following its instructions, and call emergency services. Do not leave the person alone or ask them to walk around. Keep them lying down unless breathing is easier sitting with legs outstretched; place an unconscious person on their side. If symptoms do not improve or return, follow emergency guidance about further treatment. Hospital assessment is still required.

Facial swelling with tongue or throat swelling, hoarseness, difficulty breathing, wheezing, dizziness, collapse, or widespread hives is an emergency. Call emergency services immediately. Do not wait to see whether an antihistamine reduces the swelling, and do not delay care because the swelling appears limited.

Ask how to use your auto-injector, whether you need more than one device, how to recognise early symptoms, and how to make an avoidance and emergency plan. Ask when follow-up with an allergy clinician is appropriate.