Anaphylaxis (pronounced ann-fill-axis) is a severe and potentially life-threatening whole-body allergic reaction.
Any allergic reaction, including anaphylaxis, occurs when the body’s immune system wrongly identifies a food or a substance as a threat. Reactions usually begin within minutes but can be as long as 2-3 hours later.
Anaphylaxis always requires immediate emergency medical attention. Most healthcare professionals consider an allergic reaction to be anaphylaxis if it involves difficulty in breathing or affects the heart rhythm or blood pressure. In extreme cases there could be a fall in blood pressure. The person may become weak and floppy and may have a sense that something terrible is happening
Any of the ABC (Airway, Breathing, Circulation) symptoms may lead to collapse and unconsciousness and on rare occasions, can be fatal.
Any one or more of the following symptoms may be present – these are often referred to as the ABC symptoms.
AIRWAY -swelling in the throat, tongue or upper airways (tightening of the throat, hoarse voice, difficulty swallowing)- BREATHING – sudden onset wheezing, breathing difficulty, noisy breathing
- CIRCULATION – dizziness, feeling faint, sudden sleepiness, tiredness, confusion, pale clammy skin, loss of consciousness
Do not delay administering an Adrenaline Auto-Injector – the earlier it is administered the better. It is life-saving medication.
Pre-loaded auto-injectors containing adrenaline are prescribed for people who are at risk of anaphylaxis and they should always carry them with them wherever they go. The most common ones are the epi-pen and the Jext. Adrenaline is referred to in some countries as epinephrine, which is the internationally recognised term for adrenaline.
Because serious allergic reactions can occur very quickly, adrenaline auto-injectors must always be readily available. It is important to carry two adrenaline auto-injectors at all times which are in date and of the correct dose.
It is crucial to act very quickly in the event of an anaphylactic reaction and follow these steps:
Call for Emergency Assistance
- Immediately after using your first adrenaline auto-injector (AAI), call 999 or ask someone nearby to do it for you.
- Inform the operator that this is an emergency case of anaphylaxis (ana-fil-axis).
Provide Clear Information
Give clear and precise directions to your location, including the postcode, to ensure the ambulance can reach you quickly. Use the What3Words app if you aren’t sure of your precise location.
Track the Time
Make a note of the time you used your first AAI. This information is important for medical responders.
Administer a Second AAI if Necessary
If your condition worsens or there is no improvement after five minutes, use your second AAI.
