Anaphylactic Shock
Links to Essential Resources
Anaphylaxis is a severe allergic reaction that can strike fast—and your survival could depend on how prepared you are. We’ve curated critical, up-to-date guidance from 11 trusted medical sources, including the Mayo Clinic, WebMD, and other leading expert organizations.
Not just another list—it’s a targeted, easy-to-access collection of links to life-saving tips and emergency strategies that could make all the difference in a crisis.
Always consult your medical provider before making changes to your care plan.
Essential Reading
- What you should know about anaphylaxis
- Food allergies: what to do if someone has an anaphylactic reaction: Excellent article by Dr. Mark Porter an UK NHS GP and columnist for The Times, that covers details of how to use EpiPens, when to use EpiPens (better to give it when it is not needed ), when/why to use a second EpiPen, what to do if you do not have an EpiPen, and to beware of apparent miraculous recovery.
- How to Properly Position a Patient Suffering Anaphylaxis While Waiting for EMS: While continuously observing the patient to determine whether a second dose of epinephrine is necessary, it is important to position them correctly to help avoid shock and ensure their breathing remains unobstructed. Video:
- Biphasic Anaphylaxis Is Difficult to Predict, Can Occur Much Later Than Initial Reaction: The reason you MUST visit the emergency department after an anaphylactic reaction — even if your symptoms subside after an injection of epinephrine — is because symptoms can recur minutes or even hours later. This is known as biphasic anaphylaxis.
- Anaphylaxis FAACTs: Summary by FARE includes links to alternatives to EpiPens and airborne exposure risk for peanuts and shellfish.
- Allergyhome.org: A guide for parents and families. Provides what to do’s If you think your child is experiencing an anaphylactic reaction
- Understanding Infant Anaphylaxis: Severe Allergic Reactions in Babies
- Anaphylaxis Wallet Card
- Allergy and Anaphylaxis Emergency Plan
- Anaphylaxi Frequently Asked Questions Translated into 23 languages
- Epipens
Dedicated Anaphylaxis Webpages
– What Is
– 4 Stages
– Symptoms
– Causes
– Risk Factors
– Treatment
– Prevention
– Complications
– Overview
– Symptoms
– When to see a doctor
– Causes
– Risk factors
– Complications
– Prevention
– Overview
– Symptoms & Cause
– Diagnosis and Tests
– Treatment
– Prevention
– Outlook/Prognosis
– Living With
– Aware Sign
– Adrenaline Action
– Action Sheet
– Epipen How To Use
– How to use an EpiPen
– Frequently Asked Questions
– About Expired EpiPens
– Anaphylaxis positioning
– Australia Acute Anaphylaxis Clinical Care Standard
– What is
– Symptoms
– Diagnosis
– Treatment
– Prevention
– When to Call for Help
– Expired EpiPen in an emergency?
– Storage
– Interactions
– Poster Signs and Symptoms
– Poster
– Emergency Plan
What Is Anaphylaxis?
Anaphylaxis is a rapid-onset allergic reaction that can affect multiple organ systems, including the skin, respiratory tract, gastrointestinal system, and cardiovascular system. Common triggers include foods (such as peanuts, tree nuts, shellfish, milk, and eggs), insect stings, medications, and latex. Symptoms can escalate quickly, making early recognition and treatment vital. Verywell Health
Recognizing the Symptoms
Symptoms of anaphylaxis can vary but often include:
- Hives or skin rash
- Swelling of the lips, tongue, or throat
- Difficulty breathing or wheezing
- Rapid or weak pulse
- Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea
- Dizziness or fainting
It’s crucial to note that anaphylaxis can be biphasic, meaning symptoms may return hours after the initial reaction subsides. Therefore, medical observation after treatment is essential.
Immediate Response and Treatment
The first-line treatment for anaphylaxis is the prompt administration of epinephrine via an auto-injector, such as an EpiPen. Delaying epinephrine administration can lead to worsening symptoms and increase the risk of fatality. After using epinephrine, it’s imperative to seek emergency medical care, as further treatment and monitoring may be necessary.
Proper positioning of the individual during an anaphylactic reaction can aid in maintaining blood flow and breathing. Generally, lying the person flat with legs elevated is recommended unless breathing difficulties dictate otherwise.
Prevention and Preparedness
For individuals with known severe allergies, prevention strategies include:
- Strict avoidance of known allergens
- Carrying an epinephrine auto-injector at all times
- Wearing medical identification
- Educating family, friends, and coworkers about the condition
- Developing an emergency action plan
Travelers with food allergies should be aware of local emergency numbers, as they vary by country, and consider carrying allergy alert cards in the local language to communicate their condition effectively.FoodAllergy.World
Resources and Further Reading
The FoodAllergy.World article provides links to various resources, including
- Guides on using epinephrine auto-injectors
- Information on recognizing and managing anaphylaxis
- Tips for traveling safely with food allergies
- Comparisons of allergy alert cards in multiple languages
These resources are invaluable for individuals seeking to understand and manage anaphylaxis effectively.
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