About the topic
Anaphylaxis is a rapidly developing, life-threatening allergic reaction. It can follow food, medicine or an insect sting, and a rash may be absent.
What to do now
- Use the prescribed adrenaline auto-injector immediately as instructed and seek emergency help at once.
- Lie down. If breathing is difficult, raise the shoulders slowly; do not stand or walk.
- If not improving after five minutes, use a second prescribed injector if available, following its instructions.
Symptoms & signs
- Sudden swelling of the tongue or throat, or a tight or hoarse throat.
- Wheezing, noisy breathing or difficulty swallowing.
- Marked dizziness, confusion or collapse; a rash may also occur.
When to speak with a clinician: Hospital assessment is necessary even if the person seems better after an injector.
Food & nutrition
No food or drink treats anaphylaxis. Use the prescribed injector and get emergency help; an allergy specialist can guide future food avoidance without unnecessary restrictions.
Foods & nutrition to follow
- During the reaction, emergency treatment and the team's feeding decisions take priority.
- After recovery, choose balanced foods that are safe for your confirmed allergies.
Foods to limit or avoid
- Give nothing orally during throat swelling, breathing difficulty or reduced alertness.
- Avoid confirmed food allergens; check labels and ask about ingredients.
About this guide
General adult health information; it does not diagnose your symptoms or replace individual medical advice. Follow any plan your treating team has given you.
Further reading from the clinical sources used for this guide: