How can you prevent anaphylaxis?

Anaphylaxis is a sudden, severe allergic reaction that can affect breathing, circulation, skin and the digestive system. Common triggers include foods, medicines and insect stings. A confirmed trigger can be recorded in your medical notes and communicated to family, friends, school or work. An allergy assessment may help clarify suspected triggers; see Allergy Testing for what this involves.

Read ingredient labels every time, ask about preparation and cross-contact when eating away from home, and do not share food or medicines. Keep prescribed adrenaline accessible, check its expiry date and make sure people around you know where it is and how to use it. Wear medical alert identification if advised. Follow your written emergency plan, and arrange review after any reaction. Food Allergy information may help with trigger avoidance.

Use your prescribed emergency medicine immediately if symptoms suggest anaphylaxis, such as trouble breathing, throat or tongue swelling, faintness, widespread hives or repeated vomiting after a likely exposure. Call emergency services, lie down with legs raised unless breathing is easier sitting, and do not walk around. Wheezing can be a warning sign. Read Anaphylaxis Emergency Treatment for emergency care information.

Ask which triggers need testing, whether you need an adrenaline auto-injector, how to practise using it, and when your action plan should be reviewed.