Anaphylaxis is a severe, potentially life-threatening allergic reaction that requires immediate medical attention. Here’s a step-by-step guide for providing first aid for someone experiencing anaphylaxis:

Recognizing Anaphylaxis

Common symptoms of anaphylaxis include:

• Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
• Swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat
• Hives or rash
• Rapid or weak pulse
• Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhoea
• Dizziness or fainting
• Feeling of impending doom
• These can appear in any order

First Aid Steps

1. Call for Emergency Help
   • Dial emergency services immediately (In the UK, 999/112).
2. Administer Epinephrine/Adrenaline
   • If the person has an epinephrine/ adrenaline auto-injector (e.g., EpiPen, Jext), use it right away.
   • Inject into the outer thigh, holding the injector in place for the recommended amount of time (usually about 3 seconds).
   • Do not wait to see if symptoms improve before administering the autoinjector.
3. Lay the Person Down
   • Have the person lie down and elevate their legs if possible. This helps maintain blood flow to vital organs.
   • If the person is having trouble breathing, they may prefer to sit up. If unconscious, place them in the recovery position on their side.
4. Monitor the Person’s Condition
   • Keep the person calm and stay with them until emergency help arrives.
   • Monitor their breathing and pulse. Be prepared to administer CPR if necessary (if the person stops breathing or loses their pulse).
5. Administer a Second Dose if Necessary
   • If symptoms do not improve within 5 to 15 minutes and a second epinephrine/adrenaline auto-injector is available, administer a second dose.
6. Avoid Allergens
   • Make sure the person avoids any known allergens. Remove the allergen if it is still present (e.g., stinger from a bee sting).

Aftercare

• Medical Attention: Even if symptoms improve after administering the autoinjector, the person should still go to the hospital for further evaluation and treatment. Anaphylaxis can have a biphasic reaction, where symptoms return after initial treatment.
• Inform Medical Personnel: Provide as much information as possible about the person’s condition, what triggered the reaction, and the time and dosage of epinephrine/adrenaline administered.

Prevention

• Identify Triggers: Knowing what triggers anaphylaxis is crucial. Common triggers include foods (nuts, shellfish), insect stings, medications, and latex.
• Medical Alert: Wearing a medical alert bracelet can provide critical information to first responders.
• Epinephrine/Adrenaline Auto-Injectors: People with a history of severe allergies should carry at least two auto-injectors at all times.

Summary

Anaphylaxis is an emergency. Quick recognition and action, especially administering epinephrine, can save lives. Always seek immediate medical help, even if the symptoms seem to improve.

-Pooja Vaswaney

• Mental Health & Well-being