20/05/2025
Today is International Red Sneaker Day to raise awareness of Food Allergies and anaphylaxis.
Anaphylaxis is an allergic reaction, the immune system releases histamine, which causes body tissue to swell and leak.
While most reactions are mild to moderate, such as swelling of the face, runny nose and itchy hives, in some cases, reactions to certain triggers can cause swelling in the airways and/or the circulatory system (blood vessels etc). This can cause difficulty in breathing and/or a sudden drop in blood pressure leading to collapse. These are potentially life-threatening symptoms.
Adrenaline (epinephrine) is the only medicine known to reverse the effects of anaphylaxis, by opening up the airways, strengthening the heartbeat and raising blood pressure.
Symptoms usually occur within five to 30 minutes of exposure to an allergen. However, reactions can occur up to two hours later.
Any ONE or more of the following symptoms is a sign of anaphylaxis:
- difficulty with or noisy breathing
- swelling of the tongue
- swelling or tightness in the throat
- wheeze or persistent cough
- difficulty talking and/or hoarse voice
- persistent dizziness, loss of consciousness and/or collapse
- becoming pale and floppy (in young children)
Emergency treatment for anaphylaxis. Follow the steps in the ASCIA Allergy or Anaphylaxis Action Plan as follows:
- BODY POSITION IS IMPORTANT: Get the person to lie flat; elevate their legs if possible. If their breathing is difficult, allow them to sit. Do not allow them to stand or walk, even after adrenaline has been given
- GIVE ADRENALINE IMMEDIATELY: using an adrenaline auto-injector e.g. EpiPen®
- Phone 111 for an ambulance. Say “anaphylaxis – need adrenaline”
- Give further adrenaline dose (EpiPen®) if no response after 5 mins (if available).
- Commence CPR if the person’s pulse or breathing is absent
