Understanding Anaphylaxis: What to Do in the Critical First Minutes
Anaphylaxis can become life-threatening within minutes of contact with an allergen. Recognising it early and using adrenaline promptly are key.
What Is Anaphylaxis
Anaphylaxis is a whole-body allergic reaction that comes on quickly after contact with an allergen. It can affect the breathing, circulation, skin, and digestive systems. Common triggers include foods (peanut, nuts, shellfish), medicines, and insect stings.
Warning Signs
Trouble breathing, a hoarse voice, a tight feeling in the throat, hives all over the body with vomiting and belly pain, dizziness and a drop in blood pressure, confusion. If several of these appear together, do not wait and see.
What to Do Right Away
1) Call 120 right away; 2) If available, give an adrenaline (epinephrine) injection into the muscle right away (use an adrenaline auto-injector as directed in its instructions); 3) Lie flat and raise the legs; do not stand up suddenly; 4) If breathing and heartbeat stop, start CPR. Adrenaline (epinephrine) is the first-choice emergency medicine. It must be prescribed by a doctor and used under their guidance.
Afterwards
Even if symptoms ease, you must see a doctor. Some people have a second reaction. After a diagnosis, carry an allergen warning card and have a specialist doctor make a long-term management plan.
This article is for general information only and is not medical advice. Please follow your doctor's instructions.
This article is for general information only and is not medical advice. If your symptoms affect daily life, please see a doctor.