Anaphylaxis

Anaphylaxis recognition and treatment

Posted by Jo O'Donovan | 11 Jul

Anaphylaxis

Anaphylaxis is a severe medical condition that needs immediate treatment, it is an allergic reaction caused by a huge over-reaction in the body’s immune system. It is life threatening and can happen extremely quickly. Anaphylaxis is commonly caused by food, drugs or stings. During a reaction the body produces huge quantities of a chemical called histamine causing rashes, swelling and itching. In extreme cases histamine can cause airway, breathing or circulation problems.

Is it Anaphylaxis?

Anaphylaxis normally starts very quickly – usually within minute with rapid progression.

Anaphylaxis presents with Airway, Breathing and Circulation problems.

Anaphylaxis is usually accompanied by a skin rash and/or swelling (not all casualties have this).

Symptoms include:

swelling of the throat and tongue
difficulty breathing or breathing very fast
difficulty swallowing, tightness in the casualty’s throat or a hoarse voice
wheezing, coughing or noisy breathing
feeling tired or confused
feeling faint, dizzy or fainting
skin that feels cold to the touch
blue, grey or pale skin, lips or tongue –this may be easier to see on the palms of their hands or soles of their feet.

Treatment

Call 999/112 for emergency help
Lay the casualty down and raise their legs if they feel light-headed or faint. Do not sit them up.
If the casualty carries an auto injector they should be able to inject themselves on their own but if necessary – assist them.
If the casualty becomes unconscious check Airway and Breathing and resuscitate if necessary
A second injector can be used after 5 minutes if there is no improvement, or the symptoms return.