26/04/2026
Are you prepared for a food allergy emergency? Anaphylaxis is the most severe of allergic reactions. It can escalate quickly and can be life-threatening. If in doubt but you suspect anaphylaxis, always give adrenaline and call for medical help immediately.
Most people will fully recover, but it is important to know the signs and how to act quickly.
Know the signs, THINK ABC:
📣 AIRWAY
Persistent cough
Hoarse voice
Difficulty swallowing
Swollen tongue
📣 BREATHING
Difficult or noisy breathing
Wheezing
📣 CIRCULATION / CONSCIOUSNESS
Dizziness or feeling faint
Pale, clammy skin
Confusion
Collapse or loss of consciousness
If any of the above, the airway, breathing, or loss of consciousness are involved, give adrenaline immediately via an adrenaline auto-injector (AAI) such as EpiPen. Be aware that anaphylaxis can happen with or without skin rash/hives symptoms.
Call 999 and say anaphylaxis (ana-fil-axis).
🚑Explain that you or your child are having a life-threatening allergic reaction and tell them you have administered an AAI.
⏰If no improvement after 5 minutes, give the second AAI.
❎Keep still, don't move around.
✅Lie flat with legs raised.
🗣If breathing is difficult, sit slightly upright.
🤢If feeling sick, gently turn to one side.
Important:
Antihistamines are NOT enough to treat anaphylaxis. Allow paramedics to take you to hospital, even if symptoms improve, as a second wave of symptoms can occur even hours later. Always carry two AAIs with you wherever you go.
📣 Every second counts. Please share, save, screenshot, it could save a life.
Sources: NHS, British Society for Allergy and Clinical Immunology.
Natasha’s Foundation does not provide medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional.