A severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) develops in allergy sufferers shortly after exposure to certain allergens such as insect bites and foods but is also seen, for example, by medical allergies. The condition can be untreated to be fatal in a short period of time
If a person gets an allergic reaction, call for professional help immediately
Often allergy sufferers themselves have adrenaline (epiphene) or inhaled medicine – help the person take the medicine or inject if they can not self
In case of shock and unconsciousness, normal first aid is exercised
Background
A severe allergic reaction, also called anaphylaxis , can lead to shock and life-threatening difficulty breathing
The condition can develop within seconds or minutes in allergy sufferers who are exposed to a specific allergenic substance
Almost any allergenic substance can trigger the reaction, e.g. insect sticks, pollen, certain foods, drugs
Some have anaphylactic reactions for unknown reasons
Typical symptoms and signs
Rapid development of severe signs of disease: difficulty breathing, bleeding, general malaise
Often severe hives (large blisters of different sizes). Eyes and lips can also quickly lift up
The inside of the throat may raise, which may cause respiratory distress
Quick heart rate, cold, sweating
Dizziness, confusion, stomach cramps, nausea or vomiting may accompany the severe allergic reaction
Anxiety is a natural consequence
First aid
Call 112 and call ambulance
Leading preferably flat possibly. With the legs upstairs. If the patient is unable to breathe, put him to bed
Help him / her find a possible syringe of adrenaline (epiphene) that he / she wears
Check if the affected person has taken medication to be inhaled (inhaled), swallowed or injected (injected) to counteract the allergy
Optionally, you can help give the syringe typically given in the thigh
Give information
If you know the cause of the severe allergic reaction, inform the ambulance staff about it
By unconsciousness
If unconscious, ensure free airways. Check the breathing
If the person breathes, put him / her in a stable side lane
If he / she does not breathe – start resuscitation ( child / adult )
Prevention
If you have had anaphylactic reaction earlier, you should include medicines that can be used to counteract the reaction
Adrenaline is the recommended medication for severe allergic reaction
The effects of the medicine are only transient. So it is vital that you get professional medical help as soon as possible
