Anaphylaxis Action Plan
Asthma & Allergy Care, P.C. treats children and adults for severe allergic reactions. This page explains what anaphylaxis is and what to do when it happens.
What Is Anaphylaxis?
Anaphylaxis is a severe allergic reaction that affects the whole body. It can begin within minutes of contact with a trigger and can become life-threatening quickly. Both children and adults can experience anaphylaxis.
Common triggers include certain foods, insect stings, and medications. A person who has reacted to one of these before is at risk of reacting again if exposed.
Anaphylaxis is a medical emergency. It does not resolve on its own and requires immediate treatment. Asthma & Allergy Care, P.C. evaluates patients of all ages for the allergies that can lead to anaphylaxis.
Warning Signs
Anaphylaxis can involve one or more of these signs. In children, signs may be harder to describe, so watch for changes in behavior along with physical symptoms.
Hives
Raised, itchy welts that can appear anywhere on the skin.
Swelling of Lips or Throat
Swelling of the lips, tongue, or throat that can affect speaking or swallowing.
Difficulty Breathing
Wheezing, coughing, or a feeling of tightness in the chest or throat.
Dizziness
A drop in blood pressure can cause lightheadedness or fainting.
Chest Pain
Tightness or pain in the chest, sometimes with a rapid heartbeat.
Immediate Action
1. Recognize the Reaction
Notice the signs of anaphylaxis as soon as they appear. Do not wait to see if symptoms improve on their own.
2. Use an Epinephrine Auto-Injector
If one is available, use it right away as directed. This is the first line of treatment for anaphylaxis.
3. Call Emergency Services
Call for emergency medical help immediately, even if symptoms seem to improve after the injection.
4. Position the Patient
Have the person lie flat with legs raised, unless they are having trouble breathing or are vomiting, in which case they should sit up or lie on their side.
After Emergency Treatment
Seek Medical Evaluation
Anyone treated for anaphylaxis should be evaluated by a medical professional after the emergency, even if symptoms have gone away. A reaction can return after initial treatment, and follow-up care confirms the person is stable.
Preventing Recurrence
After an anaphylactic reaction, it is important to identify what caused it and make a plan to avoid it going forward. Asthma & Allergy Care, P.C. works with patients of all ages to review the reaction and plan next steps.
Preparedness
Carry an Epinephrine Auto-Injector
Anyone at risk of anaphylaxis should carry an epinephrine auto-injector at all times and know how to use it without hesitation.
Identify Triggers Through Allergy Testing
Allergy testing helps identify the specific foods, insects, or medications that cause a reaction, so they can be avoided.
Wear Medical Alert Identification
A medical alert bracelet or card lets others know about the allergy and the risk of anaphylaxis in an emergency.
Family and Caregiver Preparation
Family members, caregivers, teachers, and coaches should know the signs of anaphylaxis and how to respond. This is especially important for children, who may not be able to describe what they are feeling or manage a reaction on their own.
Everyone involved in a child's or adult's care should know how to use an epinephrine auto-injector before it is needed. Practicing the steps in advance helps reduce delay and hesitation during an actual reaction.
Asthma & Allergy Care, P.C. reviews these steps with patients and their families so that everyone involved knows what to do.
Long-Term Management
Identify the Offending Allergen
Working with a medical professional to identify the exact cause of a reaction is the foundation of long-term management.
Allergen Avoidance
Once a trigger is identified, avoiding it is the primary way to prevent future reactions. This may involve changes at home, school, or work.
Immunotherapy When Appropriate
For some patients and some allergens, immunotherapy may be an appropriate part of a long-term plan, decided on an individual basis.
What to Bring to Your Visit
Insurance Card
Any Required Referral
Medication List, Including Epinephrine
New and returning patients can find and complete required paperwork ahead of time on our patient forms page.