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Severe Allergic Reaction
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.
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