top of page
Signs & Symptoms of Anaphylaxis
Anaphylaxis is the most severe type of allergic reaction, and can be fatal if not treated immediately.
-
Skin:​​ hives, swelling (eyes, lips, tongue), itching, warmth, redness, rash.
-
Breathing: coughing, wheezing, trouble breathing, chest pain or tightness, throat tightness and trouble swallowing, hoarse voice, nasal congestion, or hay fever-like symptoms such as watery eyes, sneezing and runny nose.
-
Stomach: nausea, cramps, vomiting and diarrhea.
-
Heart: lips or skin are a pale or blue colour, rapid heartbeat, weak pulse, dizziness or feeling lightheaded, and shock.
-
Other: anxiety, headache, and metallic taste in mouth. The child may also become very quiet because they do not know what is going on.
How to Treat a Severe Allergic Reaction
Symptoms vary from person to person, and each reaction can present different symptoms. Some signs and symptoms include:
​
-
Inject EpiPen (epinephrine) in child's large thigh muscle at the first signs of an allergic reaction.
-
Call 911.
-
A second dose of epinephrine can be given as early as 5 minutes after the first dose is the symptoms do not improve.
-
While waiting for the ambulance place the child on their back with their legs raised. If the child starts vomiting place the child on their side so that they do not choke on their vomit.
-
Do not let child stand or walk around since this can cause complications.
-
Notify emergency contact person.
What is Epinephrine?
Epinephrine is a drug made from the hormone adrenaline which is normally produced by the body and aids in reversing the symptoms of an allergic reaction. It works by opening the airways, increasing heart rate and regulating blood pressure.
EpiPen
EpiPen or epinephrine auto-injector is the first line of treatment for anaphylaxis. If you do not have an EpiPen or are unsure how to use it, speak with your healthcare provider. It is important to:
-
Ensure the EpiPen is not expired.
-
Ensure that it is working properly and is not kept at extreme temperatures.
-
Practice using it. Learn how at:
-
Inform teachers, babysitters, or anyone who may be taking care of the of child of allergies and how to use the EpiPen in case of an emergency.
-
Carry it at all times.
-
Use it.
References:
Food Allergy Canada. (2017). Emergency treatment. Retrieved January, 2017, from http://foodallergycanada.ca/about-allergies/emergency-treatment/
​
bottom of page