Allergic reactions (Anaphylaxis) emergency first aid
“Anaphylaxis is a severe and potentially life-threatening allergic reaction that occurs rapidly after exposure to an allergen. It is a systemic, exaggerated, and sudden immune response triggered by the body’s immune system to a specific substance, known as an allergen. An allergen is typically a harmless substance, but in individuals with allergies, their immune system recognizes it as a threat and produces an excessive immune response.”
Anaphylaxis is a severe and potentially life-threatening allergic reaction that requires immediate medical attention. If you suspect someone is experiencing anaphylaxis, follow these first aid steps:
Steps for providing first aid for anaphylaxis:
Recognize the Signs of Anaphylaxis:
Anaphylaxis is a severe allergic reaction that can involve multiple systems in the body. Symptoms can appear within seconds to minutes after exposure to an allergen and may include:
- Difficulty breathing or wheezing
- Swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat
- Rapid or weak pulse
- Severe itching or hives all over the body
- Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea
- Confusion or loss of consciousness
Call for Emergency Medical Help:
If you suspect someone is experiencing anaphylaxis, immediately call for emergency medical help. Time is critical in anaphylaxis management, and the person needs prompt medical attention.
Help the Person to Sit or Lie Down:
Assist the person into a comfortable position. If they are feeling dizzy or lightheaded, it’s best to have them sit or lie down to prevent falls.
Check for Epinephrine Auto-Injector:
If the person is known to have severe allergies and carries an epinephrine auto-injector (e.g., EpiPen), ask them if they have it available. If they are conscious but unable to use it themselves, you may administer it on their behalf.
Administer Epinephrine (Adrenaline) if Appropriate:
Epinephrine is the first-line treatment for anaphylaxis. It helps to reverse the allergic reaction by constricting blood vessels, relaxing airway muscles, and improving blood circulation. If the person has an auto-injector, follow these steps:
- Remove the cap of the auto-injector.
- Hold the injector with the needle end down.
- With one swift motion, firmly jab the needle end into the person’s outer thigh (through clothing if necessary) at a 90-degree angle.
- Hold the injector in place for about 10 seconds to ensure all the medication is delivered.
- Remove the auto-injector and massage the injection site for a few seconds.
- Dispose of the used auto-injector properly, according to local guidelines.
Note: Epinephrine is a medication with potential side effects, and it should only be administered to someone who is experiencing anaphylaxis or as directed by a healthcare professional. It’s always best to seek immediate medical attention even after using epinephrine.
Call for Backup Assistance:
If possible, ask someone nearby to help you with first aid and to bring any additional medication or information the person may have regarding their allergies.
Loosen Tight Clothing:
If the person is wearing tight clothing (e.g., a tight collar or belt), loosen it to ease breathing and improve blood flow.
Do Not Give Anything to Eat or Drink:
It’s crucial not to offer the person any food or drink, as they may have difficulty swallowing due to throat swelling.
Monitor and Reassure:
Stay with the person and closely monitor their vital signs. Reassure them and keep them as calm as possible, as stress and anxiety can worsen the symptoms.
Things not to do:
Absolutely! When providing first aid for anaphylaxis, there are certain things you should avoid doing to ensure the person’s safety and well-being:
Do Not Delay Seeking Medical Help:
Anaphylaxis is a medical emergency that requires immediate attention. Never underestimate the severity of an allergic reaction or try to manage it solely with home remedies. Call for emergency medical assistance as soon as you suspect anaphylaxis.
Do Not Ignore Symptoms:
Anaphylaxis can rapidly worsen, so it’s essential not to dismiss any signs of a severe allergic reaction. Take any symptoms seriously and act promptly.
Do Not Hesitate to Use Epinephrine:
If the person has been prescribed an epinephrine auto-injector and is experiencing anaphylaxis, do not hesitate to use it. Epinephrine is a life-saving medication that should be administered as soon as possible.
Do Not Give Oral Medications:
Avoid giving the person oral medications during anaphylaxis, as they may have difficulty swallowing or may not be able to absorb the medication properly due to decreased blood flow to the gastrointestinal system.
Do Not Offer Food or Drink:
Refrain from giving the person anything to eat or drink during anaphylaxis, as this can worsen the situation and lead to choking.
Do Not Wait for Symptoms to Worsen:
Some allergic reactions may start with mild symptoms and progress rapidly to anaphylaxis. Don’t wait for symptoms to become severe before taking action. Early intervention is critical.
Do Not Leave the Person Alone:
Stay with the person experiencing anaphylaxis at all times. If you need assistance, ask someone nearby to help, but never leave the person alone until medical help arrives.
Do Not Assume the Reaction Will Subside on Its Own:
Anaphylaxis requires medical treatment, and symptoms are unlikely to improve without proper intervention. Professional medical help is essential.
Do Not Ignore Secondary Reactions:
Some individuals may experience a second wave of symptoms after the initial improvement following the use of epinephrine. Always seek medical attention, even if the person seems to be feeling better.
Do Not Apply Pressure to the Injection Site After Epinephrine:
Avoid pressing on the injection site after administering epinephrine, as this can reduce the effectiveness of the medication.