The first aid advice you should follow for anaphylactic shock
What is anaphylactic shock?
Anaphylactic shock is a severe, life-threatening allergic reaction that can affect the whole body. During an anaphylactic reaction, chemicals are released into the body that cause blood vessels to widen, air passages in the lungs to narrow (leading to breathing difficulties), and swelling of the tongue and throat, which can obstruct the airway. In cases of anaphylaxis, it is vitally important to get emergency help as soon as possible.
What causes anaphylactic shock?
Causes of anaphylaxis include foods such as peanuts, tree nuts, milk, eggs, shellfish, fish, sesame seeds and kiwi fruit, although many other foods can also trigger it. Non-food causes include wasp or bee stings, natural latex (rubber), and certain drugs such as penicillin.
What are the symptoms of anaphylactic shock?
Symptoms of anaphylactic shock can include a red, itchy rash or raised areas on the skin, along with red, itchy, and watery eyes. Swelling may occur in the hands, feet, and face. The person might experience abdominal pain, vomiting, and diarrhoea. Breathing can become difficult, ranging from a feeling of tightness in the chest to severe respiratory distress, causing wheezing and gasping for air. The skin may appear pale or flushed, and there may be visible swelling of the tongue and throat, along with puffiness around the eyes. The individual may also show signs of confusion and agitation, as well as other general signs of shock. You should follow the steps below if someone is showing these symptoms.
The steps to follow if someone has gone into anaphylactic shock
Step 1 – Call 999
Call 999/112 for an ambulance and state you suspect anaphylaxis.
Step 2 – Auto-injector
If the casualty has had a diagnosis of anaphylaxis before then they will most likely have been given an auto-injector pen. This contains a medicine called adrenaline which helps tackle the symptoms of anaphylaxis. You should encourage the casualty to use their own auto-injector themselves. If they are unable to do this for themselves, then you can administer it to them following the instructions found on the auto-injector itself.
Step 3 – Monitor
Keep the casualty in a comfortable position (sitting up is best to help with breathing) and monitor their breathing and level of response.
Step 4 – Repeat auto-injector doses
Repeated doses of adrenaline from further auto-injectors can be given at five-minute intervals if there is no improvement or the symptoms return.
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