The following are symptoms of a potentially life threatening allergic reaction:
- Sudden or increased breathlessness which may be wheezy.
- Choking, struggling to breathe.
- Going pale, cold and clammy.
- Loss of consciousness or fainting
Treatment
If you have an adrenaline auto-injectorpen, then this would be the time to use it. You should also take an antihistamine, if able. If you have a blue inhaler (e.g. Salbutamol) and you feel wheezy or chest tightness, you should use it. Preferably using a spacer device such as Volumatic.
You should get help urgently. Phone 999 and say you are having a severe allergic reaction. Wait until the ambulance arrives. Even if you feel better by the time they arrive, your medicines may start to wear off quickly.
If you feel dizzy or faint, it is best to lie down in the recovery position. If you have breathing difficulties however, you may find it better to stay sitting up.
Useful links
The below videos have instructional guidance on using your adrenaline autoinjectors. Please click on the titles of each for further information.