Allergic reactions may result from contact with any substance to which a person is allergic. Common causes are insect bites, foods and medicines.

Severe allergic reactions can cause people to die. You can help by knowing what to do.

• Swelling of the affected area, throat, mouth or face
• Redness of the skin or an itchy rash
• Breathing difficulty similar to an asthma attack
• Dizziness, weakness or collapse

• Call 111 for an ambulance if they have difficulty breathing or if they are very unwell
• Assist the patient to take any medicine they have been prescribed for severe allergy
• Lie the patient down if they are unwell or on their side if they are unconscious
• If they stop breathing, place them on their back and start CPR
• If the allergy follows exposure to a chemical, wash the contact area thoroughly with water

For comprehensive first aid information please refer to the St John Emergency Handbook. You can also ensure you’re ready to help by completing a St John First Aid course.