Intro
Food and environmental allergies are common, but anaphylaxis is a severe, life-threatening allergic reaction. It can happen within minutes of exposure to an allergen, and requires immediate emergency action. Even a tiny exposure can trigger a reaction in sensitive individuals.
Key Points
- Anaphylaxis is a medical emergency — use epinephrine (adrenaline) immediately.
- Common triggers: peanuts, tree nuts, shellfish, milk, eggs, insect stings, certain medicines.
- Symptoms can progress quickly — from hives and swelling to breathing difficulty and collapse.
- Always call emergency services, even after epinephrine use.
- People at risk should carry an auto-injector and action plan at all times.
Common Allergens
- Peanuts and tree nuts
- Shellfish and fish
- Milk and eggs
- Wheat and soy
- Sesame
- Insect stings and some medicines (e.g., antibiotics, NSAIDs)
Symptoms
- Mild/moderate: itching, hives, swelling of lips/face, abdominal pain, vomiting
- Severe (anaphylaxis): difficulty breathing, wheezing, swelling of tongue/throat, dizziness, fainting, collapse
First Aid for Anaphylaxis ⚠️
- Use epinephrine auto-injector immediately (e.g., EpiPen).
- Call emergency services.
- Lay the person flat with legs elevated — unless breathing is very difficult (then allow sitting up).
- If no improvement after 5–10 minutes, give a second dose if available.
- Monitor breathing and circulation — be prepared to start CPR if necessary.
Prevention
- Read food and medicine labels carefully.
- Avoid cross-contamination when preparing food.
- Inform restaurants, schools, and workplaces about allergies.
- Carry an action plan and wear medical alert jewellery.
FAQ
Q: Why use epinephrine first and not antihistamines?
A: Epinephrine is the only life-saving treatment for anaphylaxis. Antihistamines may help mild symptoms (like hives) but do not stop airway or circulation collapse.
Q: Do I still need to go to the hospital if symptoms improve?
A: Yes. A reaction can return (biphasic reaction), so medical monitoring is essential.
Q: Can children outgrow food allergies?
A: Some do (e.g., milk or egg), but others (like peanut and tree nut) often persist. Always follow up with an allergy specialist.
Further Reading
- American College of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology — Food Allergy
- Australasian Society of Clinical Immunology and Allergy — Anaphylaxis Resources
- World Allergy Organization
Related Guides
- Emergencies — Guide Hub
- Chest Pain: When to Call 911 vs Wait for a Doctor
- Severe Bleeding — First Aid
- CPR — First Aid Guide
- Stroke — Act FAST
References
Simons, F.E.R., et al. (2020). World Allergy Organization anaphylaxis guidance 2020. World Allergy Organization Journal, 13(10), 100472.
⚠️ Educational only; not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always call emergency services immediately if anaphylaxis is suspected.