Recognising an Allergic Reaction

Common Triggers

• Foods: peanuts, tree nuts, shellfish, milk, eggs
• Insect Stings: bees, wasps
• Medications: penicillin, sulfa drugs
• Latex & Environmental: latex gloves, pollen, pet dander

Signs & Symptoms

• Mild to Moderate:
  • Skin: hives, itching, redness
  • Respiratory: sneezing, nasal congestion, mild wheezing
  • Gastrointestinal: nausea, cramps, vomiting
• Severe (Anaphylaxis):
  • Airway: throat tightness, hoarse voice, difficulty breathing
  • Cardiovascular: rapid/weak pulse, dizziness, low blood pressure
  • Skin: widespread hives, facial or lip swelling
  • Neurological: confusion, loss of consciousness

Immediate First-Aid Steps

1. Stay Calm & Assess – Quickly identify the allergen if possible and ask if they’ve reacted before.
2. Call for Help – Dial 999 immediately if there are any signs of anaphylaxis.
3. Position Comfortably
   • If feeling faint: lie flat and elevate the legs.
   • If breathing is difficult: sit upright to ease breathing.
4. Loosen Clothing – Remove tight clothing around the neck and chest to aid circulation.

How to Use an Epinephrine Auto-Injector (EpiPen®)

1. Verify Your Device – Ensure it’s in date and you have a second dose on hand.
2. Injection Technique
   • Site: Outer mid-thigh (you can inject through clothing).
   • Steps:
     1. Remove the safety cap.
     2. Press the tip firmly against the thigh until you hear a click.
     3. Hold for at least 3 seconds.
   • Dosage: Adults (0.3 mg) • Children (0.15 mg)
3. Repeat If Needed – If there’s no improvement after 5–15 minutes, administer the second injector if available.
4. Monitor & Await EMS – Stay with the person, checking breathing and pulse until paramedics arrive.

When to Call Emergency Services

• After any use of an EpiPen®
• Any signs of airway compromise or shock
• Loss of consciousness

Aftercare & Follow-Up

• Medical Review: Even if symptoms subside, a healthcare assessment is crucial to monitor for a delayed (“biphasic”) reaction.
• Documentation: Record the allergen, symptom onset, time of injection, and response.
• Review & Train: Regularly update avoidance strategies and practice auto-injector use with trainer devices.

Prevention & Preparedness

• Avoidance: Read labels carefully and ask about ingredients when eating out.
• Emergency Action Plan: Keep a written plan at home, school, and work.
• Training: Ensure family, friends, and colleagues know how to spot a reaction and use an auto-injector.

Westbury Chemist offers in-store EpiPen® training sessions—ask at your local branch or visit our website to book!

Resources & Support

• Anaphylaxis Campaign UK – patient guides & peer support
• NHS Allergy Information – official clinical advice
• Westbury Chemist – prescription reviews, consultations, and training