Signs and symptoms of anaphylaxis

Common allergies children suffer from are to food substances such as peanuts, and even a very small trace of nut can cause someone to have an anaphylactic reaction. This will normally come on very quickly, however, sometimes it can take a few hours. If you suspect any anaphylactic reaction, you need to activate the EMS immediately.

Signs and symptoms of anaphylaxis include:

• General symptoms, such as itchy, watery eyes, a headache, or a runny nose.
• Skin problems, such as a swelling of the face, lips, tongue, neck, or hands. Or an itching, hives, rashes, or generally red skin.
• Breathing problems, such as cough, difficulty swallowing, rapid breathing, difficulty in breathing, noisy breathing, a change in or loss of voice, a high pitched noise during inhalation, wheezing, or a sharp burning sensation in the chest and throat. Serious breathing problems are a sign that this person may be experiencing a severe allergic reaction.
• Heart or circulation problems, such as increased heart rate, decreased blood pressure, excessive sweating, or cool and clammy skin.
• Mental status problems, including confusion, agitation, hallucinations, fainting or a loss of consciousness.

For more details, we have an Anaphylaxis video online course at www.proanaphylaxis.co.uk