Fact Checked
Overview Of Allergic Reactions
- Some individuals are very allergic to certain foods, substances and medicines, or venom resulting from a sting or bite. An allergic response can be extremely severe, and can result in death.
- Peanuts in any form are the most common food item that can result in a severe allergic response in some people.
- Many kids are sensitive to peanuts; so parents and teachers need to make sure that there is no interaction – e.g. by eating a friends lunch. These severe reactions are identified as anaphylactic shock. The response might differ from a body rash and wheezing, to fainting and even death.
Symptoms And Signs
Many kids are sensitive to peanuts; so parents and teachers need to make sure that there is no interaction – e.g. by eating a friends lunch. These severe reactions are identified as anaphylactic shock. The response might differ from a body rash and wheezing, to fainting and even death.
- Inflammation of the face, particularly around the mouth and throat.
- Soreness of the skin or an irritated rash over the torso and back.
- Queasiness and/or nausea.
- Breathing trouble comparable to an asthma attack.
- Faintness, weakness or dizziness.
- Diarrhea.
How You Can Help
- Stay with the casualty and ensure they rest.
- If an allergic response is occurring, the casualty might unexpectedly collapse and has to be managed as an unconscious casualty. CPR might be necessary.
- Relaxation can slow the reaction and allow time for the paramedics to arrive.
- Let the casualty rest in a position that is comfortable. Every so often the casualty will want to sit up if there are respiratory problems.
Call for the paramedics: if the casualty is having trouble breathing; or if the casualty is very ill.
- Offer any relevant treatment or medication.
- Certain allergic patients have prescribed tablets with them or a vaccination of adrenaline. If needed, help the casualty find and manage their prescribed dosage of medication.
- If the patient is too ill to control their own adrenaline, another individual should do this for them. This should be done straight away if an allergic response is emerging.
- If the reaction follows direct contact with a chemical.
- Rinse the affected area carefully with lots of water.
- Watch the casualty carefully.
- While waiting for the paramedics to come, watch the casualty carefully for any change in their condition.
- If the casualty becomes unconscious, place them on their side.
- Be willing to begin CPR if the casualty stops breathing.