Anaphylaxis isn’t your usual allergic reaction. Escalating far more quickly and affecting far more of the body, it can be life-threatening if left untreated.
We recognise most allergic reactions through itching, rashes, or discomfort, but anaphylaxis produces systemic symptoms such as breathing difficulties, plummeting blood pressure, and a loss of consciousness. This can happen within minutes, which is why it is essential to know what to look out for when approaching someone who is having a reaction.
Recognising symptoms early
Outside of the previously mentioned symptoms, you should keep an eye out for swelling of the face or throat; what’s more, patients will often feel a tightening of the chest or become dizzy and lose their orientation.
It can be difficult to distinguish anaphylaxis from standard allergic reactions at first, but it is the rapid onset of symptoms that sets it apart. You can sign up for emergency first aid training courses run by providers such as www.tidaltraining.co.uk/emergency-first-aid-training-courses/ if you want to be fully prepared for situations like this. With proper training, you will be more attuned to the distinctions between allergic reactions and be able to respond more effectively.
What to do in a crisis
Should you find yourself with someone suffering from anaphylaxis, your first response should be to administer an adrenaline auto-injector, which people suffering from allergic reactions will typically carry with them. After you have administered the injection, you can call the emergency services.
If there is no adrenaline shot, you should contact the emergency services immediately and ensure they are aware of the exact allergic reaction. While you wait, lay the patient flat unless they are struggling to breathe, in which case sit them upright and raise their legs to maintain blood flow to their vitals.
Don’t provide any food or drink, as you may not be aware of what triggered a reaction. Don’t leave them alone, and monitor their condition. If they stop breathing, administer CPR until help arrives.
Even without adrenaline shots, acting fast could make the difference between a life saved and a life lost.