Anaphylaxis is an extreme allergic reaction, which can be fatal and must be taken extremely seriously. First aid can help, but a child having an anaphylactic reaction also needs medical attention.

What is it?

Anaphylaxis is an extreme allergic reaction to certain foods, drugs or animal stings, which results in rapid chemical changes in the body.

Symptoms

• Blood vessels dilate, producing red, blotchy skin
• Air passages become constricted, resulting in breathing difficulties
• Face and neck may swell
• Pulse may race
• There may be puffiness around the eyes
• Casualty may wheeze and gasp for air

First aid aims

• Get emergency help
• Be prepared to resuscitate

Actions

• Go to the nearest hospital.
• Give the child as much calm reassurance as you can
• Put child in a position that helps to alleviate breathing difficulties
• Loosen any tight clothing
• If child is carrying medication, help them to use it

Further actions

If the child loses consciousness

• Go to the nearest hospital.
• Lie them down
• Open airway
• Prepare to start resuscitation
• Place them in recovery position