Anaphylaxis: First aid

A severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) can produce shock and life-threatening respiratory distress. In sensitive people, anaphylaxis can occur within seconds or up to several hours after exposure to a specific allergy-causing substance. Almost any allergy-causing substance — including insect venom, pollen, latex, certain foods and drugs — can cause a reaction. Some people have anaphylactic reactions from unknown causes.If you're extremely sensitive, you might break out in hives and your eyes or lips may swell severely. The inside of your throat may swell as well, even to the point of causing difficulty breathing and shock. Dizziness, mental confusion, abdominal cramping, nausea or vomiting also may accompany a severe allergic reaction.If you've had an anaphylactic reaction in the past, carry medications with you as an antidote. Epinephrine is the most commonly used drug for severe allergic reactions. Because the effects of epinephrine are only temporary, seek emergency medical attention immediately after using it.

If you observe someone having an allergic reaction with signs of anaphylaxis :

•  Seek emergency medical assistance immediately.

•  Check to see if the person is carrying special medication to inhale, swallow or inject to counter the effects of the allergic attack.

•  Perform cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) if the person is not breathing, has no signs of circulation or is completely unconscious.