Anaphylaxis Awareness

ANAPHYLAXIS a guide to 30 people in the In United Kingdom Die from Anaphylactic Shock! year Anaphylaxis is an allergic reaction that can affect the whole body in a matter of minutes or hours. The reaction occurs when a person is exposed to an allergen such as peanuts or shellfish. Common Symptoms Below are some common reactions that occur when a person is exposed to an allergen. Eyes: Itching, tearing, redness, or swelling of the skin around the eyes Nose: Sneezing, runny nose, nasal congestion Mouth: swelling of the tongue, or a metallic taste Lungs Throat: Difficulty getting air in or out, repeated coughing, chest tightness, wheezing or other sounds of labored breathing, increased mucus production, throat swelling or itching, hoarseness, change in voice, or a sensation of choking Skin: Itching, flushing, hives (urticaria) or swelling Heart and circulation: Dizziness, weakness, fainting, rapid, slow, or irregular heart rate, or low blood pressure Digestive system: Nausea, vomiting, abdominal cramps, or diarrhoea Nervous system: Anxiety, confusion, or a sense of impending doom Common Allergens Below are some common allergens that can cause reactions. Sesame Seeds: Reactions to sesame seeds can be severe. Sesame oil should be regarded as extremely risky as it is almost certain that it will be unrefined. Bee & Wasp Stings: Allergic reactions to insect stings can be severe, although fatalities are rare. Shellfish: Shellfish reactions are rare in young children and usually become present in early adulthood. Cow's Milk: The allergy is common among children. It is usually outgrown during child- hood but can be lifelong and severe. Eggs: Common allergy for children under five. 50 per cent children outgrow their egg allergy. Nuts: Most common reactions come from peanuts, almonds, walnuts, Brazil nuts and cashew nuts. Treatment Be prepared by following our step by step guide for any anaphylaxis emergency. KEEP CALM AND TREAT ANAPHYLAXIS 1. CHECK A.B.C (Airway, Breathing & Circulation) 2. REST AND REASSURE 3. LOOSEN TIGHT CLOTHING 4. STEADY AND SUPPORT IN A POSITION THAT ALLOWS THEM TO BREATH MORE EASILY 5. HELP THE CASUALTY TO ADMINISTER THEIR AUTO- INJECTOR IMMEDIATELY 6. BE PREPARED TO RESUSCITATE 7. SEEK URGENT MEDICAL HELP Produced by Aid Training Sources used: www.aid-training.co.uk www.anaphylaxis.org.uk www.thenounproject.com