Managing Allergies and Sudden Reactions

Allergies are incredibly common, affecting millions of people around the world. They occur when your immune system overreacts to a normally harmless substance, known as an allergen. 

While some allergies merely cause annoying symptoms, others can be severe and even life-threatening. Understanding your own allergies, or the allergies of those around you, can help prevent uncomfortable symptoms and potentially dangerous reactions.

Identifying Your Allergies

Knowing exactly what you’re allergic to is the first step in effective allergy management. If you experience regular allergy symptoms, or have had a severe allergic reaction (especially anaphylaxis), see an allergy specialist for an accurate diagnosis.

Common allergens include:

• Foods: Peanuts, tree nuts, milk, eggs, shellfish, etc.
• Environmental: Pollen, dust mites, mould, animal dander.
• Medications: Penicillin and other antibiotics.
• Insect stings: Bees, wasps, etc.

It’s important to remember that even if you’ve been exposed to something before without issues, the severity of allergic reactions can change over time.

Managing Day-to-Day Allergies

Once you know your allergy triggers, the focus shifts to minimising exposure and managing symptoms. Here are some strategies:

• Avoidance: The most effective way to prevent reactions is to avoid your allergens. This might mean dietary changes, keeping your home as allergen-free as possible, or checking pollen counts.
• Over-the-counter medications: Antihistamines and decongestants can often help relieve mild allergy symptoms like sneezing, a runny nose, and itchy eyes.
• Seek further support: If your allergies are difficult to control, or if you experience any new or worsening symptoms, consult your GP or allergy specialist. They may recommend additional treatments or allergy testing.

Recognising Allergic Reactions

Allergic reactions can range from mild to severe. Typical symptoms include:

• Itching in the mouth, throat, eyes, or skin
• Hives (raised, itchy red bumps)
• Swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat
• Runny nose, sneezing
• Wheezing, difficulty breathing
• Stomach cramps, nausea, vomiting

Even if a reaction seems mild, it’s important to seek medical advice if you’re unsure, as symptoms can sometimes worsen quickly.

Unexpected Reactions

If you are exposed to a potential allergen for the first time (like a food you’ve never eaten or an insect sting), be watchful for possible allergic reactions. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience any of the following:

• Difficulty breathing or swallowing
• Dizziness, fainting, or feeling lightheaded.
• Rapid heartbeat
• Widespread hives or swelling

After such a reaction, seeing an allergy specialist for testing is essential to identify the cause and plan for the future.

Emergency Preparedness for Known and Unexpected Reactions

For known allergies:

• Adrenaline auto-injector: If you have a history of severe allergic reactions (anaphylaxis), your doctor will likely prescribe an adrenaline auto-injector (such as an EpiPen). Always carry it with you.
• Educate others: Ensure family, friends, co-workers, or teachers know how to recognise a severe reaction and use your auto-injector in an emergency.
• Medical alert jewellery: Consider wearing a bracelet or necklace detailing your allergies.
• Action Plan Work with your doctor to create an allergy action plan that outlines your allergies, emergency medication, and contact information.

For unexpected reactions:

• Be vigilant: Monitor yourself or your loved one closely for signs of a worsening reaction after exposure to a potential new allergen.
• When in doubt, seek help: Err on the side of caution and get immediate medical attention if you experience any concerning symptoms.

In Closing

Allergies can be well-managed with knowledge, preparation, and the right support. While prevention is always the best strategy, sometimes severe reactions happen. If you or a loved one experiences a serious allergic emergency, know that immediate help is available.

EMERGIVAC provides essential services to help manage those moments:

• AMBULANCE EVACUATION: In the event of a severe allergic reaction, our team will assess, stabilise, and evacuate you to the nearest private hospital for appropriate care.
• MEDICAL ADVICE & TRIAGE SERVICE: Our 24-hour access to trained nurses can offer guidance on recognising allergic reactions, using your emergency medication, and help you decide if further medical attention is needed.

Learn more about the benefits of joining EMERGIVAC here.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What are common allergens that can trigger reactions?

Common allergens include foods (peanuts, tree nuts, shellfish), environmental factors (pollen, dust mites), medications (penicillin), and insect stings (bees, wasps).

2. How can I identify my allergies?

Consulting with an allergy specialist is essential for accurate diagnosis. They can perform tests to identify specific allergens and develop a management plan tailored to your needs.

3. What are some strategies for managing day-to-day allergies?

Strategies include avoidance of allergens, using over-the-counter medications like antihistamines, and seeking further support from a GP or allergy specialist if symptoms persist.

4. What are common symptoms of allergic reactions?

Symptoms can vary from itching and hives to swelling of the face or difficulty breathing. It’s crucial to seek medical advice if you experience any concerning symptoms.

5. What should I do in case of unexpected allergic reactions?

Be vigilant for signs of a worsening reaction and seek immediate medical attention if needed. For known allergies, carry an adrenaline auto-injector and educate others on how to assist in emergencies.

6. How can EMERGIVAC assist during allergic emergencies?

EMERGIVAC provides essential services such as ambulance evacuation and medical advice, ensuring timely and appropriate care during allergic emergencies.