If you suspect anaphylaxis

Anaphylaxis is a severe allergic reaction that can develop rapidly after food, medicine, an insect sting, or another trigger. It may cause swelling of the lips, tongue, or throat; difficulty breathing; wheezing; widespread hives; vomiting; dizziness; faintness; or unusual sleepiness. A rash does not need to be present, and symptoms can involve more than one part of the body.

Because breathing and circulation can deteriorate quickly, treat a suspected reaction as an emergency rather than waiting to see whether it settles. A Food Allergy is one possible trigger, but anaphylaxis can have other causes.

Use the adrenaline auto-injector according to its instructions, through clothing if necessary, and call your local emergency number immediately. Tell the operator that anaphylaxis is suspected. Lay the person down with legs raised if comfortable; allow them to sit up if breathing is difficult, and place an unconscious but breathing person on their side. Do not give food or drink. If symptoms continue and another prescribed injector is available, follow emergency advice while waiting for help.

Emergency care is needed for any trouble breathing, throat or tongue swelling, wheezing, faintness, collapse, or rapidly spreading allergic symptoms. Do not drive the person yourself if emergency transport is available. Symptoms can return after initial improvement, so hospital assessment is needed even if the person feels better after adrenaline.

Ask about an allergy referral, Allergy Testing, injector prescription and training, trigger avoidance, and a written emergency action plan. Check that family members, colleagues, or carers know where the injector is kept and how to recognise the early signs.