Anaphylaxis First Aid

Anaphylaxis First Aid

Anaphylaxis First Aid – Introduction

This section provides clear and practical information on Anaphylaxis First Aid for people in Canada. It is designed to help you understand what anaphylaxis is and how to respond safely at home. This guidance is part of first aid and prevention efforts, not a full medical training manual.

Anaphylaxis is a severe allergic reaction that can happen quickly and affect breathing, circulation, and consciousness. Knowing how to act fast can save lives. This information focuses on what you can do safely without special training or equipment.

At home, you can:

• Recognize signs of anaphylaxis, such as difficulty breathing, swelling, hives, or feeling faint.
• Help the person use their prescribed epinephrine auto-injector if available.
• Keep the person lying down with their legs raised unless this causes discomfort or breathing problems.
• Call 911 immediately if symptoms are severe or worsen rapidly.

What you must avoid:

• Do not delay calling emergency services if the person shows signs of anaphylaxis.
• Do not give anything by mouth if the person is having trouble breathing or is unconscious.
• Do not try to diagnose or treat anaphylaxis without following these basic first aid steps.

Remember, anaphylaxis can become life-threatening quickly. Always call 911 or go to the nearest emergency department or urgent care centre if you suspect someone is having an anaphylactic reaction.

Medically reviewed by SASI Medical Review Board.

Anaphylaxis First Aid – Key facts

• Anaphylaxis is a severe allergic reaction that can happen quickly and affect breathing, circulation, and consciousness.
• Recognizing early signs like difficulty breathing, swelling of the face or throat, hives, or sudden weakness is crucial for timely action.
• Using an epinephrine auto-injector immediately is the safest first aid step if anaphylaxis is suspected.
• After using epinephrine, call 911 or local emergency services right away, even if symptoms improve.
• Do not wait to see if symptoms get worse before seeking emergency help; anaphylaxis can progress rapidly.
• Avoid giving anything by mouth if the person has trouble breathing or swallowing.
• Preventing anaphylaxis involves knowing and avoiding known allergens and carrying an epinephrine auto-injector if prescribed.

Anaphylaxis First Aid – Recognizing symptoms and danger signs

Knowing how to spot symptoms of an allergic reaction is key to providing effective Anaphylaxis First Aid. Symptoms can range from mild to severe. Mild reactions may include itching, hives, or a runny nose. Moderate symptoms often involve swelling of the face or lips, stomach pain, or vomiting.

Severe reactions, or anaphylaxis, require immediate action. These can include difficulty breathing, tightness in the throat, wheezing, a rapid or weak pulse, dizziness, or loss of consciousness. These signs indicate a life-threatening emergency.

When to seek emergency help

• Call 911 or local emergency services immediately if the person has trouble breathing or swallowing.
• Seek urgent care if swelling spreads rapidly or if the person feels faint or confused.
• Do not wait to see if symptoms improve on their own when severe signs appear.

What to avoid

• Do not give anything by mouth if the person is having trouble breathing or swallowing.
• Avoid leaving the person alone if symptoms worsen quickly.
• Do not delay calling emergency services if you suspect anaphylaxis.

Recognizing these danger signs early and acting quickly can save lives. Always prioritise safety and get professional help when severe symptoms occur.

Anaphylaxis First Aid – Immediate first aid steps

If you suspect anaphylaxis, act quickly. Anaphylaxis First Aid focuses on safe, practical actions you can take at home or in the community while waiting for emergency help.

What to do right away

• Call 911 or your local emergency number immediately if the person shows signs of severe allergic reaction, such as difficulty breathing, swelling of the face or throat, or loss of consciousness.
• If the person has an epinephrine auto-injector (EpiPen), help them use it right away. Inject it into the outer thigh muscle, even through clothing if necessary.
• Keep the person lying down with their legs raised slightly, unless this causes discomfort or breathing difficulty.
• Loosen tight clothing and cover them with a blanket to prevent shock.
• Stay with the person and monitor their breathing and responsiveness until emergency services arrive.

What not to do

• Do not wait to see if symptoms improve before calling 911. Anaphylaxis can worsen rapidly.
• Do not give the person anything to eat or drink if they have trouble swallowing or breathing.
• Do not attempt to give a second dose of epinephrine unless instructed by emergency personnel or if symptoms persist after 5 to 15 minutes and emergency help has not yet arrived.

Anaphylaxis First Aid – What NOT to do

When dealing with Anaphylaxis First Aid, certain actions can make the situation worse. Avoid these common mistakes to keep yourself or others safe.

Do NOT delay emergency help

• Never wait to see if symptoms improve on their own. Anaphylaxis can worsen quickly.
• If someone shows signs of severe allergic reaction-such as difficulty breathing, swelling of the face or throat, or loss of consciousness-call 911 immediately.

Do NOT give anything by mouth if the person is struggling to breathe or is unconscious

Giving food, drink, or medication by mouth can cause choking or worsen breathing problems.

Do NOT use antihistamines or other medications as a substitute for epinephrine

Antihistamines do not stop anaphylaxis. Epinephrine is the only first aid treatment proven to reverse severe allergic reactions quickly.

Do NOT hesitate to use an epinephrine auto-injector if prescribed

Delaying epinephrine can increase the risk of serious complications. Use it as soon as anaphylaxis symptoms appear.

Do NOT ignore mild symptoms

Even mild signs can progress rapidly. Monitor the person closely and seek emergency care if symptoms worsen.

Anaphylaxis First Aid – When to call 911 or seek urgent care

Knowing when to call 911 or seek urgent care is vital for effective Anaphylaxis First Aid. Immediate action can save lives, so it is important to recognize serious symptoms and respond correctly.

Call 911 immediately if you notice:

• Difficulty breathing, wheezing, or persistent coughing
• Swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat
• Sudden weakness, dizziness, or loss of consciousness
• Rapid or weak pulse
• Severe skin reactions such as widespread hives or flushing
• Any signs of shock or collapse

These symptoms indicate a life-threatening allergic reaction. Do not delay calling emergency services. While waiting for help, follow any prescribed emergency plan, such as using an epinephrine auto-injector if available.

When to go to the emergency department or urgent care

If symptoms are less severe but still concerning, such as mild swelling or itching without breathing difficulty, seek urgent care or visit the emergency department. This is important because symptoms can worsen quickly, and medical observation may be necessary.

When to see a family doctor or visit a walk-in clinic

If you have had a mild allergic reaction without breathing problems or swelling, and symptoms improve quickly after treatment, schedule a follow-up with your family doctor. They can help identify triggers and develop a prevention plan. Avoid delaying care if symptoms return or worsen.

Anaphylaxis First Aid – Ongoing care and follow-up

After an anaphylaxis event, careful monitoring and self-care are essential. Even if symptoms improve quickly, watch closely for any return or worsening of signs. Anaphylaxis First Aid does not end once initial treatment is given.

Monitoring at home

• Stay calm and rest in a safe place for several hours.
• Check breathing, skin colour, and alertness regularly.
• Look for delayed symptoms such as rash, swelling, difficulty breathing, or dizziness.

If symptoms return or worsen at any time, call 911 immediately. Do not wait to see if they improve again.

Self-care tips

• Follow any instructions given by healthcare providers, including taking prescribed medications.
• Avoid known allergens strictly to prevent another reaction.
• Keep emergency medications like epinephrine auto-injectors accessible at all times.

When to see a doctor

Book a follow-up appointment with your family doctor or allergist within 24 to 48 hours after the event. They can assess your recovery and update your care plan. Seek urgent care if you experience new or worsening symptoms such as:

• Difficulty breathing or swallowing
• Swelling of the face, lips, or throat
• Severe dizziness or fainting
• Persistent vomiting or abdominal pain

Always call 911 if symptoms become life-threatening or rapidly worsen. Prompt emergency care saves lives.

Anaphylaxis First Aid – Prevention tips

Preventing anaphylaxis starts with awareness and careful planning at home, work, school, and in the community. Taking simple steps can reduce the risk of exposure to allergens and help keep everyone safe.

At home and school

• Identify and avoid known allergens by reading food labels carefully.
• Keep emergency medications, such as epinephrine auto-injectors, accessible and ensure everyone knows how to use them.
• Inform family members, caregivers, and school staff about allergies and the signs of anaphylaxis.
• Clean surfaces regularly to remove traces of allergens, especially in shared spaces.

At work and in the community

• Communicate your allergies to coworkers and supervisors to create a safe environment.
• Use personal protective equipment if recommended, such as gloves when handling allergens.
• Be cautious when eating out; ask about ingredients and cross-contamination risks.
• Encourage public places to have clear allergen information and emergency plans.

Developing good habits and making environmental changes can prevent accidental exposure. Remember, if someone shows signs of anaphylaxis-such as difficulty breathing, swelling, or loss of consciousness-call 911 or local emergency services immediately. Early action saves lives.

Following these prevention tips supports safe management of allergies and reduces the chance of anaphylaxis. Always stay prepared and informed to protect yourself and others.

Anaphylaxis First Aid – FAQs

What is the first step if someone shows signs of anaphylaxis?

If you suspect anaphylaxis, call 911 immediately. While waiting for help, use an epinephrine auto-injector if available. Do not delay calling emergency services, as anaphylaxis can worsen quickly.

Can I give antihistamines at home for anaphylaxis?

Antihistamines may help mild allergic reactions but are not a substitute for epinephrine in anaphylaxis. Do not rely on antihistamines alone if severe symptoms occur. Always seek emergency care.

What symptoms indicate a severe allergic reaction?

• Difficulty breathing or swallowing
• Swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat
• Rapid or weak pulse
• Feeling faint or loss of consciousness

These signs require immediate emergency response. Call 911 without delay.

Is it safe to wait and see if symptoms improve before calling for help?

No. Anaphylaxis can progress rapidly. Always call 911 as soon as you suspect a severe allergic reaction. Early treatment saves lives.

How can I prevent anaphylaxis at home?

• Avoid known allergens strictly
• Keep epinephrine auto-injectors accessible and know how to use them
• Inform family and friends about the allergy and emergency steps

Anaphylaxis First Aid – Summary

Anaphylaxis First Aid is crucial for responding quickly to severe allergic reactions. If you suspect someone is experiencing anaphylaxis, act immediately. Use an epinephrine auto-injector if available and call 911 or your local emergency number without delay. Rapid medical attention can save lives.

At home, it is safe to:

• Help the person use their prescribed epinephrine auto-injector.
• Keep the person lying down with their legs elevated unless this causes discomfort or breathing difficulty.
• Monitor their breathing and level of consciousness closely.

Do NOT:

• Delay calling emergency services even if symptoms improve after using epinephrine.
• Give anything by mouth if the person is having trouble breathing or swallowing.
• Attempt to treat anaphylaxis with antihistamines or other medications instead of epinephrine.

Always seek urgent medical care after an anaphylactic reaction, as symptoms can return or worsen. If you see signs such as difficulty breathing, swelling of the face or throat, rapid heartbeat, or loss of consciousness, call 911 immediately. Prompt action and professional care are essential to ensure safety and recovery.

• Health Canada – Food Allergies
• Mayo Clinic – Anaphylaxis
• World Health Organization – Allergy Fact Sheet
• Canadian Red Cross – Allergic Reactions and Anaphylaxis

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice or emergency care. Always call 911 or your local emergency number in a medical emergency.