Allergy

An allergy is an immune reaction to a substance that is harmless to most people. Symptoms may affect only the nose, eyes or skin, but a life-threatening reaction called anaphylaxis can sometimes develop within minutes.

• Common allergens include foods, pollen, house dust mites, animals, moulds, insect venom, latex and medicines.
• Itching, hives, sneezing and watery eyes are often mild. Swelling of the tongue or throat, wheezing, severe difficulty breathing, fainting or rapid deterioration are warning signs.
• If anaphylaxis is suspected, use a prescribed adrenaline auto-injector immediately in the outer thigh and call 912. Antihistamines are not a substitute for adrenaline.
• Have the person lie down with their legs raised. If they have severe difficulty breathing, they may carefully sit up with their legs outstretched. Do not let them stand or walk.
• An allergy test is only meaningful alongside a matching history of symptoms. A positive result can also mean sensitisation without any actual symptoms.
• Do not cut out important foods, especially for a child, without a reliable diagnosis and advice on suitable replacements.
• Medical observation and follow-up investigation are always needed after anaphylaxis, even when adrenaline helps quickly.
• A personal emergency plan, two working injectors when prescribed, and practice with a trainer device can save lives.