St Johns Ambulance Report - Anaphylaxis
29 October 2021
Anaphylaxis is a potentially life threatening severe allergic reaction which should always be treated as a medical emergency. Anaphylaxis occurs after exposure to an allergen, foods such as peanuts, bee stings and some medicines. Anaphylaxis constricts the airways due to swelling and will choke you from the inside out. While potentially deadly, with correct care, anaphylaxis can be managed with those at risk living happy and healthy lives.
WHAT TO DO:
As always, check for any danger to yourself, or the casualty.
If the patient is unconscious, call triple zero (000) immediately. If the patient is not breathing, begin CPR.
Signs and symptoms
- Difficulty breathing, wheezing or coughing
- Swelling in the tongue, tightness in the throat
- Difficulty talking, hoarse or laboured speech
- Dizziness, collapsing
- Pale and floppy in young children
Severity of symptoms can be influenced heat, alcohol, exercise and with food allergies, how the food is prepared and how much is eaten play a role.
Seek Medical Assistance When:
If you suspect a person may be experiencing an anaphylactic episode, seek medical help immediately. The patient may have an EpiPen available, be sure to check and be ready to help the patient administer their treatment.
Don’t waste time, anaphylaxis is a life-threatening event that can quickly cause loss of life.
EpiPens and adrenaline administration are the primary treatments for anaphylaxis, if you suspect an anaphylaxis emergency, call triple zero (000) immediately.
For the full copy of the fact sheet, visit link
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