Anaphylaxis Response

Life threatening systemic allergic reaction requiring immediate epinephrine

Step by Step

Signs: rapid onset swelling of lips, tongue, or throat, difficulty breathing or swallowing, wheeze, hoarse voice, dizziness, fainting, pale or blue skin, often with hives or vomiting, within minutes to hours of exposure. If the person has an adrenaline (epinephrine) autoinjector, help them use it immediately into the outer thigh, through clothing if necessary. Call emergency services and say anaphylaxis, even if they improve. Lie the person down with legs raised, or let them sit up slowly if breathing is difficult; they should not stand or walk, even if feeling better. If symptoms have not improved after 5 minutes, a second autoinjector can be used. Antihistamines do not replace adrenaline in anaphylaxis. Be ready to start CPR.