Emergency? Call 112 now. Dispatchers will guide you through these steps on the phone.
Anaphylaxis is a rapid, severe allergic reaction that can close the airway or drop blood pressure. Common triggers are foods (peanuts, tree nuts, shellfish), insect stings, latex and medicines.
Signs
- Swelling of the tongue, lips or throat; hoarse voice; difficulty swallowing.
- Wheezing, persistent cough or difficulty breathing.
- Dizziness, collapse, pale and floppy (in young children).
- Often — but not always — hives, itching or flushing.
What to do
- Use the adrenaline auto-injector immediately into the outer thigh (through clothing is fine). Follow the device instructions.
- Call your emergency number and say “anaphylaxis”.
- Position: lie them flat with legs raised. If breathing is difficult, let them sit up. Do not let them stand or walk, even if they feel better.
- Give a second dose after 5 minutes if symptoms don't improve and a second injector is available.
- Start CPR if they become unresponsive and stop breathing normally.
Antihistamines do not treat anaphylaxis. Adrenaline is the first-line treatment — when in doubt, give it.
Last reviewed October 22, 2026 against current public guidance from national resuscitation councils and Red Cross / Red Crescent first-aid manuals. General education only — not a substitute for certified training or professional medical advice. Medical disclaimer · Suggest a correction