What to do in an Emergency

Anaphylaxis is a serious allergic reaction that can develop quickly and become life-threatening. Knowing the signs and acting immediately can save a life.

Anaphylaxis can come on very quickly.  As soon as you suspect anaphylaxis you must use your adrenaline without delay. Don’t wait to see how bad it is, or whether it will get worse. If in doubt, use your adrenaline.

Symptoms of anaphylaxis

If you or someone else experiences any of the following symptoms, treat it as a medical emergency:

• Airway: swelling in the throat, tongue or upper airways, hoarse voice, difficulty swallowing.
• Breathing: Sudden onset wheezing, breathing difficulty, noisy breathing, persistent cough.
• Circulation: Dizziness, feeling faint, sudden sleepiness, confusion, pale clammy skin, loss of consciousness or collapse.

What to do if you suspect anaphylaxis

Step 1: Give adrenaline immediately

• • If adrenaline has been prescribed (such as EpiPen®, Jext® or EURneffy®), use it straight away. Adrenaline is the first-line treatment for anaphylaxis.
  • Do not wait to see if symptoms improve or become worse. If in doubt, use your adrenaline.
  • Make a note of the time the first dose is given. If symptoms do not improve after five minutes, or if they get worse, give a second dose.

Step 2: Get into the correct position

• • If the person is conscious, they should lie flat with their legs raised to help blood flow to the heart and vital organs.
  • If they are having difficulty breathing, they may sit up slightly, keeping their legs stretched out in front of them.
  • Avoid standing, walking or sudden changes in position, even if symptoms begin to improve, as this can cause a sudden drop in blood pressure.

Step 3: Call 999

• • Call emergency services immediately after giving the first dose of adrenaline and tell the operator that the person is having “anaphylaxis” (pronounced ana- fill – axis).
  • If you are outside, giving your exact location or using What3Words can help emergency services find you more quickly.

Step 4: Do not move/stay with the person

• • Movement can make symptoms worse and cause a sudden drop in blood pressure.
  • Remain with the person until emergency help arrives and continue to monitor their symptoms.
  • Stay with them until emergency services arrive.

Poster: Anaphylaxis Symptoms and Action Sheet

Using your adrenaline device

Anaphylaxis can develop rapidly, so it is important to know exactly how and when to use your prescribed adrenaline device.

Adrenaline is available in different forms, including:

• Adrenaline auto-injectors (AAIs), such as EpiPen® and Jext®
• Intranasal adrenaline, such as EURneffy®, a needle-free nasal spray

You should always carry two in-date adrenaline devices, as a second dose may be needed if symptoms do not improve after five minutes or become worse.

Specific instructions vary depending on the device prescribed, so always follow the guidance provided for your individual device.

Healthcare professionals can show you how to use your adrenaline, and manufacturers also provide training videos and practice devices.

Find out more about adrenaline devices