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Warning-sign checks

Anaphylaxis: when to get help

Go through these in order and stop at the first one that applies. If you are reading this for someone else, answer for them.

  1. 1

    Is any of this happening now?

    Call 911

    Follow-up should address both the possible trigger and readiness for another emergency.

    A clinician may refer the patient to an allergy specialist, especially if the trigger is uncertain, the reaction was severe, or an insect sting or medication was involved.

    A written emergency action plan should explain how to recognize symptoms, when to use epinephrine, and when to call for help.

    Family members, caregivers, school staff, and coworkers may need to know where the device is kept and how to use it.

    Use prescribed epinephrine and seek emergency help immediately.

    And for anyone, someone who:

    • is struggling to breathe, gasping, choking, or cannot get words out
    Other emergency signs, for anyone
    • Someone who has chest pain, tightness or pressure lasting more than a few minutes
    • Someone who has sudden weakness or drooping on one side of the face or body, slurred speech, or sudden confusion
    • Someone who is unconscious, or cannot be woken
    • Someone who is bleeding heavily and it will not stop with firm pressure
    • Someone who has had a seizure that will not stop, or does not wake up afterwards
    • Someone who has lips or skin that look pale, blue, grey or blotchy
    • Someone who you believe has taken an overdose or swallowed something poisonous
  2. 2

    Does any of this apply?

    Book an appointment

    Routine follow-up should also review asthma control, suspected cofactors, label reading, and whether a medical identification bracelet would be useful.

    Avoiding foods or medicines without evidence can affect nutrition or medical care, so restrictions should be reviewed with a qualified professional.

    A new episode of breathing difficulty, throat swelling, faintness, collapse, or rapidly spreading symptoms is not a routine follow-up issue.

The article also says

Epinephrine devices should be easy to reach rather than stored in a car or another location with extreme temperatures.

Check the expiration date and the product’s storage instructions.

Ask a pharmacist about replacement if the device is expired, damaged, or has been used.

Some people are advised to carry more than one device because symptoms may persist or return.

The number and type of devices should be discussed with the prescribing clinician, along with insurance coverage and access at school, work, or during travel.

Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Anaphylaxis. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.