Anaphylaxis
Anaphylaxis
Anaphylaxis is a serious systemic hypersensitivity reaction that is usually rapid in onset and may cause death. Severe anaphylaxis is characterized by potentially life-threatening compromise in airway, breathing and/or the circulation, and may occur without typical skin features or circulatory shock being present.
NHS UK Anaphylaxis reminds us that anaphylaxis is a life-threatening allergic reaction that happens very quickly. It can be caused by food, medicine, or insect stings. Customers / patients should be immediately advised to call 999 if they think themselves or someone else is having an anaphylactic reaction.
Signs and symptoms include:
Although the process can happen slowly or very quickly there are 4 Stages of Anaphylaxis
- Stage 1. Symptoms are mild. People might not know yet if they are having an anaphylactic reaction.
- Stage 2. Their symptoms are now worse and on more parts of their body.
- Stage 3. As their symptoms get worse, they may have trouble breathing.
- Stage 4. Symptoms are now life-threatening.
Again NHS UK Anaphylaxis reminds us to call 999 if:
Remember if a customer presents with these symptoms you may have to call 999 on their behalf.
It is essential to call 999 because the Resuscitation Council UK Anaphylaxis guidance for the treatment of anaphylaxis reminds us the only treatment for anaphylaxis is adrenaline and a useful treatment download can be found here. Anaphylaxis Algorithm.
Some customers with previously diagnosed anaphylaxis may carry their own adrenaline with them and organisations such as ECG training offer anaphylaxis first aid courses.
