Immediate action is crucial if someone exhibits symptoms of an anaphylactic reaction. True anaphylaxis is a medical emergency that necessitates prompt treatment in a hospital's emergency department. This enables close monitoring and the administration of life-saving interventions.

• It is impossible to predict the severity of the allergic reaction. Therefore, anyone displaying signs of anaphylaxis must be transported to a hospital's emergency department.
• If rapid swelling occurs, particularly involving the mouth or throat, along with breathing difficulties, dizziness, lightheadedness, or faintness, call for ambulance transportation to the hospital.
• While awaiting the ambulance, administer self-treatment.

Self-Care at Home

Do not attempt to self-treat a severe allergic reaction at home. Proceed immediately to the nearest emergency department or call for an ambulance.

While waiting for the ambulance, try to remain calm.

• If you can identify the trigger of the reaction, take steps to prevent further exposure.
• If you can swallow without difficulty, take an antihistamine (one to two tablets or capsules of diphenhydramine [Benadryl]).
• If you are wheezing or experiencing breathing difficulties, use an inhaled bronchodilator such as albuterol (Proventil) or epinephrine (Primatene Mist) if available. These inhaled medications dilate the airway.
• If you feel lightheaded or faint, lie down and elevate your legs above your head to enhance blood flow to your brain.
• If you have been provided with an epinephrine kit, inject yourself following the provided instructions. The kit contains a premeasured dose of epinephrine, a prescription medication that rapidly alleviates the most severe anaphylactic symptoms (see Follow-up).
• Bystanders should administer CPR to an individual who loses consciousness, stops breathing, or has no pulse.

If possible, you or your companions should be prepared to inform medical personnel about your medication and allergy history.