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We are now going to look at signs and symptoms of an anaphylactic emergency, and also look at the treatment, either for yourself, or for helping somebody else. A sign is something you see and a symptom is something the patient would tell you. So a symptom would be something that you feel or that the patient has told you that they feel. Different signs and symptoms would include a tightening of the throat, difficulty breathing, someone collapses or even loses consciousness, itchy hives, a tingling and swelling of the hands, feet, eyelids, mouth or lips, also a sense of impending doom. This person is going to be very scared and very upset, so you need to do what you can to help calm them down. Other signs and symptoms you might notice are abdominal pain, diarrhea or vomiting. The person has a very tight chest or pain, wheezing or they are gasping for air. When you look at their skin, it may be pale or flushed. They may have visible swelling around their face. Also, their eyes might be very puffy. The person may be confused or agitated. You need to try and calm them down and get their medication for them. As soon as the medication's been administered, you will find that this will go away fairly quickly. They may also show signs of shock. This would lead to collapsing or loss of consciousness. Someone suffering from an anaphylactic emergency, you need to sit them down, if they are mainly breathless, or lay them down if they are dizzy. If someone's sat down, you can calm them the best you can, help them, hand them their medication so they can administer the treatment in a seated position. If they are feeling dizzy and they are laying down, they can't then fall out the chair and they can keep themself much safer. If someone is feeling sick, you need to lay them down and put them on their side. If you know it, then put them into the recovery position. Laying them onto the side will allow any vomit to come out easily and there's no chance of them choking on their vomit. If they're laying down, and you can, then raise their legs up slightly by putting a pillow or a handbag or something, just underneath their legs. This will again, help them feel better. The important thing is if they're sat down, or if they are laying down, leave them there, even after the drug's been delivered. Once that drug is actually into their body, they might start feeling better, or they should start feeling better, but they must stay in that position until the paramedics arrive. So, leave them where they are, stay there until the emergency medical services arrive and then gives further advice and treatment.
Childhood Allergies and Anaphylactic Reactions
Common Childhood Allergies
Food Allergies:
Children often suffer from allergies to food substances like peanuts, with even a tiny trace capable of triggering a severe anaphylactic reaction.
Quick Onset:
Anaphylactic reactions usually occur rapidly, but in some cases, symptoms may take a few hours to manifest.
Immediate EMS Activation:
If you suspect an anaphylactic reaction, it is vital to call the Emergency Medical Services (EMS) without delay.
Signs and Symptoms of Anaphylaxis
General Symptoms:
General signs can include itchy, watery eyes, headaches, or a runny nose.
Skin Problems:
Skin-related symptoms encompass swelling of the face, lips, tongue, neck, or hands, itching, hives, rashes, or red skin.
Breathing Problems:
Respiratory issues consist of coughing, difficulty swallowing, rapid or noisy breathing, wheezing, or a burning sensation in the chest and throat. Severe breathing problems indicate a severe allergic reaction.
Heart or Circulation Problems:
Cardiovascular signs may involve an increased heart rate, decreased blood pressure, excessive sweating, or cool and clammy skin.
Mental Status Problems:
Alterations in mental status can encompass confusion, agitation, hallucinations, fainting, or loss of consciousness.