What to Do When Someone is in an Anaphylactic Shock

People with allergies are at risk of suffering anaphylaxis or going into anaphylactic shock. Knowing what to do if someone is having an allergic reaction could help you save a life, and this guide will cover first aid for anaphylaxis, explaining how to treat anaphylactic shock and even how to treat anaphylaxis without EpiPen.

What to Do if Someone is Having an Anaphylactic Shock?

  • Recognize the symptoms:
    • Swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat
    • Difficulty breathing or wheezing
    • Rapid heartbeat or weak pulse
    • Skin rash, hives, or pale skin
    • Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea
    • Dizziness or loss of consciousness
  • Call for emergency medical assistance immediately:
    • Dial the emergency services number (e.g., 911) and explain the situation.
    • Provide the exact location and any additional relevant details.
  • Stay with the person:
    • Reassure and calm the individual, as anxiety can worsen symptoms.
    • Keep them in an upright position to aid breathing.
    • Monitor their vital signs, such as pulse and breathing rate.
  • Help the person self-administer medication:
    • If they have an epinephrine auto-injector (e.g., EpiPen), assist them in using it.
    • Instruct them to hold the injector against their thigh and activate it as directed.
    • Encourage them to remain still for several seconds after administration.
  • Do not leave the person alone:
    • Stay by their side to observe any changes in their condition.
    • Be prepared to provide CPR if necessary.
  • Loosen restrictive clothing:
    • Remove tight clothing, such as neckties or scarves, to facilitate breathing.
    • Unbutton collars and loosen belts or waistbands.
  • Help the person find a comfortable position:
    • If they are experiencing breathing difficulties, allow them to sit up or lean forward.
    • Placing a pillow or rolled-up clothing under their back can help ease breathing.
  • Do not give them anything to eat or drink:
    • Ingesting food or beverages can obstruct the airway if the person vomits.
    • Wait for medical professionals to evaluate their condition.
  • Watch for signs of worsening symptoms:
    • Be alert for any deterioration in the person’s condition.
    • Note changes in their level of consciousness or the development of severe breathing difficulties.
  • Provide information to medical professionals:
    • When emergency responders arrive, share any pertinent details about the person’s allergies, triggers, or known medical conditions.
    • Inform them of any medication already administered.

Video courtesy of American Red Cross.

What to Do if You Don’t Have an EpiPen?

  • Stay calm and reassure the person:
    • Your calm demeanor can help alleviate their anxiety.
  • Call for emergency medical assistance immediately:
    • Dial the emergency services number (e.g., 911) and explain the situation.
    • Provide the exact location and any additional relevant details.
  • Help the person find a comfortable position:
    • If they are experiencing breathing difficulties, allow them to sit up or lean forward.
    • Placing a pillow or rolled-up clothing under their back can help ease breathing.
  • Loosen restrictive clothing:
    • Remove tight clothing, such as neckties or scarves, to facilitate breathing.
    • Unbutton collars and loosen belts or waistbands.
  • Encourage the person to use their prescribed medication if available:
    • If they carry any prescribed medication, such as antihistamines, encourage them to take it as directed.
  • Monitor their vital signs:
    • Keep an eye on their breathing, pulse, and consciousness level.
    • Be prepared to perform CPR if necessary.
  • Offer assistance and support:
    • Stay with the person and provide reassurance.
    • Help them stay as calm and comfortable as possible.
  • If the person becomes unconscious and stops breathing:
    • Begin CPR immediately.
    • If you are trained in CPR, perform chest compressions and rescue breaths until medical help arrives.
    • If you are not trained in CPR, follow the instructions given by the emergency dispatcher.

Anaphylactic Shock Signs and Symptoms

What does anaphylactic shock look like? There are many symptoms of anaphylaxis, as listed below, and it’s important to be aware of the most common signs, especially for parents or guardians of children with allergies.

  • Skin reactions, such as hives, itchiness, and redness.
  • Swelling of the face, especially around the eyes and mouth.
  • Tightening of the airways, resulting in breathing difficulties and wheezing.
  • Weak pulse.
  • Vomiting or feelings of nausea.
  • Diarrhea.
  • Dizziness.
  • Swelling of the tongue.
  • Swelling of the throat.
  • Paleness, especially in children.
  • Loss of consciousness.

Common Triggers of Anaphylaxis

Anaphylaxis can be triggered by various substances or factors. Here are some common triggers:

  • Food allergens:
    • Peanuts
    • Tree nuts (e.g., almonds, walnuts)
    • Shellfish (e.g., shrimp, lobster)
    • Fish
    • Milk
    • Eggs
    • Soy
    • Wheat
  • Insect venom:
    • Bee stings
    • Wasp stings
    • Hornet stings
    • Fire ant bites
  • Medications:
    • Antibiotics (e.g., penicillin, sulfonamides)
    • Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
    • Aspirin
    • Contrast agents used in medical imaging
  • Latex:
    • Latex gloves
    • Latex-containing medical devices (e.g., catheters, syringes)
  • Exercise-induced anaphylaxis:
    • Physical activity combined with certain foods or medications can trigger a severe allergic reaction.
  • Other allergens:
    • Pollen
    • Animal dander (e.g., pet hair or skin flakes)
    • Dust mites
    • Mold spores

It’s important to note that individual triggers can vary, and someone may have multiple triggers for anaphylaxis. Additionally, some cases of anaphylaxis may occur without an identifiable trigger, known as idiopathic anaphylaxis.

Anaphylaxis FAQ

What is anaphylactic shock?

Anaphylactic shock is a severe allergic reaction that can be life-threatening. It occurs when the body’s immune system overreacts to an allergen, triggering a cascade of symptoms affecting multiple organs.

What are the common symptoms of anaphylactic shock?

Symptoms can include difficulty breathing, wheezing, swelling of the face or throat, hives or skin rash, rapid heartbeat, low blood pressure, dizziness, and loss of consciousness.

What are the common triggers of anaphylactic shock?

Common triggers include certain foods (e.g., peanuts, shellfish), insect stings, medications (e.g., antibiotics, NSAIDs), latex, and exercise combined with specific factors (food, medications).

Can Anaphylactic Shock Stop on Its Own?

Anaphylactic shock is a severe and potentially life-threatening allergic reaction that requires immediate medical attention. It typically does not stop on its own and can worsen rapidly without intervention.

How is anaphylactic shock treated?

The primary treatment for anaphylactic shock is the prompt administration of epinephrine (adrenaline) via an auto-injector, followed by seeking immediate medical assistance. Additional treatments may include antihistamines, corticosteroids, and intravenous fluids.

How can I prevent anaphylactic shock?

If you have known triggers, avoiding them is crucial. Carry an epinephrine auto-injector (such as an EpiPen) if you are at risk of anaphylactic reactions. Inform others about your allergies and educate yourself about managing allergic reactions.

What should I do if someone experiences anaphylactic shock?

Call emergency services immediately. If the person has an epinephrine auto-injector, help them administer it. Stay with the person, monitor their vital signs, and provide reassurance until medical help arrives.

Should I go to the hospital after experiencing anaphylactic shock?

Yes, it’s crucial to seek medical care even if symptoms improve after administering epinephrine. Healthcare professionals can assess the situation, provide necessary treatments, and help prevent future episodes.

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