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AnaphylaxisFIRST AID

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Anaphylaxis: First aid

A severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) can produce shock

life-threatening respiratory distress and circulatory collapse.

In sensitive people, anaphylaxis can occur within minutes, bualso occur up to several hours after exposure to a specific allcausing substance. A wide range of substances  —  including

venom, pollen, latex, and certain foods and drugs  — can caanaphylaxis. Some people have anaphylactic reactions fromunknown causes.

If you're extremely sensitive, you might break out in hives and

eyes or lips might swell severely. The inside of your throat migas well, even to the point of causing difficulty breathing and Your blood pressure drops, and your internal organs can be

affected. Dizziness, mental confusion, abdominal cramping,

nausea, vomiting or diarrhea also may accompany anaphyl

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How You Can Be Ready

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. It comes oan injection that must be prescribed by your doctor. You canadminister epinephrine with an auto-injector, such as the Episure to read the injection instructions as soon as you receive

auto-injector, and have your household members read themwell.

You should also carry an antihistamine pill, such asdiphenhydramine (Benadryl, others), because the effects of

epinephrine are only temporary. Seek emergency medicalattention immediately after taking these medications.

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If You Observe Someone Having An AllergicReaction With Signs Of Anaphylaxis

Call 911 or your local medical emergency number.

Check for special medications that the person might be carrying to

allergic attack, such as an auto-injector of epinephrine (for exampAdminister the drug as directed  — usually by pressing the auto-injeperson's thigh and holding it in place for several seconds. Massage

site for 10 seconds to enhance absorption. After administering epinthe person take an antihistamine pill if he or she is able to do so with

Look for a medical emergency ID bracelet or necklace.

Have the person lie still on his or her back with feet higher than the

Loosen tight clothing and cover the person with a blanket. Don't gi

else to drink.

If there's vomiting or bleeding from the mouth, turn the person on hprevent choking.

If there are no signs of circulation (breathing, coughing or moveme

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