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Warning-sign checks

Nut allergies: 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

    Then call emergency services, even if symptoms improve.

    Follow your personal emergency plan and use another device if the plan instructs you to and symptoms continue or return.

    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

    Is any of this happening?

    Be seen today

    Use prescribed adrenaline immediately if a suspected allergic reaction causes breathing difficulty, throat tightness, a persistent cough, wheezing, faintness, collapse, or other signs of anaphylaxis.

    Do not wait for a rash before treating serious breathing or circulation symptoms.

    Do not rely on an antihistamine for anaphylaxis.

    Seek prompt medical advice after a first suspected reaction to a nut, even if the symptoms were mild.

    Until assessed, avoid the suspected food rather than deliberately trying it again.

  3. 3

    Does any of this apply?

    Book an appointment

    Arrange routine follow-up if:

    • You are unsure which nuts need to be avoided
    • Your emergency medicine is expired or you are unsure how to use it
    • Reactions are happening despite avoidance
    • Food restrictions are affecting nutrition or daily life
    • You want to know whether repeat testing is appropriate

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