Which specialist treats anaphylaxis?

Anaphylaxis is a rapid, serious allergic reaction that can affect breathing, blood pressure, skin and digestion. Facial swelling, wheezing, shortness of breath or difficulty swallowing can signal a dangerous reaction. It is not a condition to wait on a routine specialist appointment.

After emergency care, an allergist can review what happened, medicines, foods, insect exposure and previous reactions. Allergy testing may help identify a trigger, although the history and timing of the episode also guide the assessment. A GP can help coordinate follow-up and update your medical record.

If anaphylaxis is suspected, use prescribed adrenaline according to your action plan and call emergency services immediately. Do not rely on an antihistamine alone for breathing or circulation symptoms. Stay with the person, follow dispatcher instructions and take the used device or medicine packaging to hospital.

Once recovered, arrange allergy follow-up. Ask for a written emergency plan, advice on avoiding the suspected trigger, and guidance for family, school or colleagues. Keep prescribed emergency medicine available as instructed.

Seek emergency help immediately for trouble breathing, wheezing, throat tightness, difficulty swallowing, facial or tongue swelling, collapse, severe dizziness or rapidly spreading symptoms after a possible exposure. Symptoms can worsen quickly, even when the skin reaction seems limited.

What may have triggered the reaction? Do I need an allergist or allergy testing? When should I use adrenaline, and who should know my emergency plan? Could a drug allergy be involved?