Allergic Reactions: Recognizing Anaphylaxis and How to Respond
Allergies are common — but when they turn severe, they can become life-threatening within minutes.
That kind of severe allergic reaction is called anaphylaxis, and knowing how to recognize and respond quickly can save a life.
Whether it happens at home, school, work, or in public, everyone should know the signs of anaphylaxis and what to do while waiting for emergency help to arrive.
What Is Anaphylaxis?
Anaphylaxis is a severe, rapid allergic reaction that affects the whole body. It occurs when the immune system overreacts to a trigger (called an allergen), such as:
· Certain foods (peanuts, shellfish, milk, eggs, tree nuts)
· Insect stings or bites
· Medications (antibiotics, pain relievers)
· Latex
· Severe environmental allergens
Anaphylaxis can cause the airways to tighten, blood pressure to drop, and vital organs to lose oxygen — making it a true medical emergency.
Recognizing the Signs of Anaphylaxis
Symptoms often appear within seconds or minutes of exposure to an allergen.
Watch for these warning signs:
Mild to Moderate Symptoms:
· Hives, itching, or skin redness
· Swelling of the lips, eyes, or face
· Stomach pain, nausea, or vomiting
Severe (Anaphylactic) Symptoms:
· Difficulty breathing or swallowing
· Swelling of the tongue or throat
· Dizziness, fainting, or rapid heartbeat
· Feeling of impending doom
· Drop in blood pressure
Tip: Anaphylaxis doesn’t always start with hives or skin symptoms — breathing difficulty and swelling can happen first.
How to Respond to Anaphylaxis
If someone is showing signs of anaphylaxis, don’t wait to see if symptoms improve. Act immediately:
1. Call 911 (or Your Local Emergency Number)
Tell the dispatcher the person is having a possible anaphylactic reaction.
Time is critical — the sooner medical professionals are on the way, the better.
2. Use an Epinephrine Auto-Injector (EpiPen® or Similar)
· If the person has a prescribed EpiPen®, help them use it right away.
· Inject it into the middle of the outer thigh — through clothing if necessary.
· Hold it in place for 3 seconds, then remove it and massage the area for 10 seconds.
If symptoms don’t improve after 5–10 minutes and another injector is available, use a second dose.
3. Lay the Person Down and Elevate Their Legs (If Possible)
This helps maintain blood flow to vital organs.
If they’re having trouble breathing, let them sit up slightly — whatever position helps them breathe easiest.
4. Stay With Them Until Help Arrives
Monitor their breathing and responsiveness.
If they stop breathing, begin CPR immediately and continue until emergency responders take over.
What NOT to Do
· Don’t wait for symptoms to worsen before using an EpiPen®.
· Don’t give food or drink — it could cause choking.
· Don’t assume one dose of epinephrine is enough — always seek medical attention after using it.
Be Prepared — Knowledge Saves Lives
Anaphylaxis can happen to anyone, even people who have never had a severe allergic reaction before.
That’s why first aid and CPR training are so important — they give you the confidence to recognize emergencies, use an EpiPen® correctly, and take lifesaving action before paramedics arrive.