What should you know about pals anaphylaxis?

Anaphylaxis is a severe whole-body allergic reaction. It can cause swelling of the lips, tongue or throat, wheezing, trouble breathing, widespread hives, vomiting, dizziness, confusion or collapse. A person may have only a few symptoms at first, and the reaction can worsen quickly. Common triggers include foods, medicines and insect stings; a previous mild reaction does not reliably predict the next reaction.

Use the person’s adrenaline auto-injector immediately if anaphylaxis is suspected, following its instructions. Call emergency services, say that anaphylaxis is suspected, and do not leave the person alone. Keep them lying down with legs raised if comfortable; let someone with breathing difficulty sit with legs extended. Do not let them stand or walk. A second injector may be needed if symptoms continue or return, according to the device instructions and medical advice.

Seek emergency help immediately for throat or tongue swelling, noisy or difficult breathing, wheezing, faintness, blue or grey lips, sudden weakness, or collapse after a possible allergen. Emergency assessment is still needed after symptoms improve because the reaction can return. Follow-up can help identify triggers and create an avoidance and emergency-action plan.

Ask which symptoms should prompt adrenaline, whether you need auto-injectors for home, school or travel, how to check their expiry dates, and whether allergy testing is appropriate. Ask who should be taught the emergency plan and how to record suspected triggers.