11/02/2026
Anaphylaxis
Anaphylaxis is a severe allergic reaction
Triggers
Common triggers include:
Foods – nuts, milk, fish, shellfish, eggs and some fruits. Drugs and medication. Insect stings – particularly wasp and bee stings. Latex
In some cases, there's no obvious trigger. This is known as idiopathic anaphylaxis.
Recognition
Anaphylaxis usually develops suddenly and gets worse very quickly. However, in some, development can take time.
Feeling lightheaded or faint. Breathing difficulties. Wheezing. Pale and clammy skin or flushed and dry. Confusion and anxiety. Collapsing or losing consciousness. Rashes, hives and other skin reactions. Nausea and vomiting. Swelling. Stomach cramps and cramps in the limbs.
First Aid for Anaphylaxis
Anaphylaxis is a medical emergency. It can be very serious if not treated quickly.
Call 999 for an ambulance immediately (even if they start to feel better) Tell them that you think the person is having anaphylactic reaction
Use an adrenaline auto-injector if the person has one – but make sure you know how to use it correctly
Remember all auto injectors hold a single dose of adrenaline
Remove any trigger if possible
Help into a comfortable position
Inject the adrenaline even if you are not sure they are having an anaphylactic reaction
If your casualty goes unconscious, open airway and check breathing
If breathing put in recovery position, if not do basic life support
Preventing Anaphylaxis
If you have a serious allergy or have experienced anaphylaxis before, it's important to try to prevent future episodes
To reduce your risk:
Identify any triggers
Avoid triggers whenever possible
Carry the auto-injector at all times
