What should you know about most common cause of anaphylaxis?

Anaphylaxis can begin soon after exposure and affect several body systems. Swelling of the lips or tongue, throat tightness, wheezing, widespread hives, vomiting, dizziness or collapse are warning signs. A reaction can progress quickly, and the trigger is not always obvious on the first occasion.

A clinician can review the timing, food or medicine exposure and previous reactions. Allergy testing may help identify a suspected trigger, but it does not replace emergency treatment during a reaction.

Use a prescribed adrenaline auto-injector immediately when anaphylaxis is suspected, then call emergency services. Follow the device instructions, keep the person lying down unless breathing is easier sitting, and do not leave them alone. A second dose may be advised if symptoms continue and help has not arrived; follow the emergency plan.

Treat breathing difficulty, wheezing, throat swelling, confusion or fainting as an emergency, even if symptoms start to settle. Hospital observation is needed because symptoms can return after initial improvement.

Ask how to recognise your early warning signs, when to use adrenaline, whether you need more than one injector, and how to make an avoidance and emergency plan for home, school or work.