First Aid Advice - Allergic Reactions

Many allergic reactions are mild and can be treated at home, while others can be severe and life-threatening. They often occur more frequently in people with a family history of allergies.

Allergic reactions vary. They can be mild or serious. They can be confined to a small area of the body or may affect the entire body. Most occur within seconds or minutes after exposure to the allergen, but some can occur after several hours, particularly if the allergen causes a reaction after it is partially digested. In very rare cases, reactions develop after 24 hours.

Common allergens include plants, pollens, bee stings, insect bites, medications, foods - especially nuts.

Mild allergic reactions may cause itching, rashes and hives. Severe allergic reactions can cause swelling of the face and neck leading to a blockage of the airway and breathing problems.

Severe allergic reactions require immediate medical attention. If the patient has experienced such reactions before they will have been provided with an Epipen autoinjector, however for a first time reaction the patient may not know about their allergy.

Mild reactions can be treated with over the counter medications (such as antihistamines)