Anaphylaxis

Anaphylaxis (or anaphylactic shock) is a severe and often sudden allergic reaction. Reactions usually begin within minutes of the casualty being exposed to their trigger but can occur up to 2-3 hours later. The casualties body is over producing a chemical called histamine which can be life threatening. 

Recognition

• Breathing difficulties – fast, shallow breathing
• Wheezing or a persistant cough
• Feeling faint or sick
• Clammy skin
• Confused, anxious
• Fast heart beat
• Loss of consciousness
• Hives
• Facial swelling – tongue, throat, eyes 
• Difficulty speaking or swallowing
• Noisy breathing

Treatment

• Try to stay calm
• Lie the child down and administer auto injector pen (if child is old enough and able, you can assist them)
• Call 999/112 and say anaphylaxis as soon as possible
• Remove any triggers if possible
• Monitor closely. Each auto injector pen can only be used once. If symptoms don’t improve, you can administer a second EpiPen after 5-15 minutes if the child has another available.