Know the Signs

 

Anaphylaxis is a severe , life-threatening allergic reaction that requires immediate medical attention. It often begins within minutes after a person eats a problem food. Less commonly, symptoms may begin hours later.

Up to 20% of patients have a second, bi-phasic anaphylatic reaction hours later, therefore it is essentioal to contact emergency responders after the initial ephinephrine injection. 

Fatal reactions are often linked with a delay in receiving ephinephrine.

 

Look for ANY SEVERE symptoms

 
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  • Shortness of breath

  • Wheezing

  • Repetitive cough

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  • Pale or blueish skin

  • Faintness

  • Weak pulse

  • Dizziness

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  • A tight or hoarse throat

  • Trouble breathing

  • Trouble swallowing

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  • Significant swelling of the tongue or lips
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  • Hives all over the body

  • Widespread redness

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  • Repetitive vomiting

  • Severe diarrhea

  • Uterine cramps

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  • Feeling something bad is about to happen
  • Anxiety or confusion
 
 

Look for more than one MILD symptom

 
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  • Itchy or runny nose

  • Sneezing

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  • Itchy mouth
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  • A few hives

  • Mild itch

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  • Mild nausea or discomfort
 

StepS to Take after symptoms appear

 
  • INJECT EPINEPHRINE IMMEDIATELY.
  • CALL 911. Tell the emergency dispatcher the person is having anaphylaxis and may need epinephrine when emergency responders arrive.
  • Lay the person flat, raise legs and keep warm. If breathing is difficult or they are vomiting, let them sit up or lie on their side.
  • If symptoms do not improve, or symptoms return, one more dose of ephinephrine can be given about 5 minutes after the first dose.
  • Transport to the ER, even if symptoms resolve.