Allergic reactions are not uncommon. In fact, the immune response that causes an allergic reaction is similar to that which causes hayfever. Most reactions happen soon after contact with an allergen.

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.

Substances that don't bother most of us (such as venom from bee stings and various foods, medications, and pollens) can trigger allergic reactions in some people.

While first-time exposure may only produce a mild reaction, repeated exposures may lead to more serious reactions. Once a person is sensitized (has had a previous sensitivity reaction), even a very limited exposure to a very small amount of allergen can trigger a severe reaction.

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.

Anaphylaxis is a sudden and severe allergic reaction that occurs within minutes of exposure, PROGRESSES RAPIDLY and can lead to anaphylactic shock and death within 15 minutes if medical intervention is not obtained.

Common allergens include:

• Plants
• Pollens
• Animal dander
• Bee stings or stings from other insects
• Insect bites
• Medications
• Foods, especially nuts and shellfish

Common symptoms of mild allergic reactions include:

• Rashes
• Hives (especially over the neck and face)
• Itching
• Nasal congestion
• Watery, red eyes

Symptoms that may indicate a moderate or severe reaction include:

• Swelling of the face, eyes, or tongue
• Difficulty swallowing
• Wheezing
• Fear or feeling of apprehension or anxiety
• Abdominal cramps or abdominal pain
• Nausea and vomiting
• Weakness
• Dizziness or light-headedness
• Chest discomfort or tightness
• Difficulty breathing
• Unconsciousness

MILD-TO-MODERATE ALLERGIC REACTION
1. Calm and reassure the person having the reaction, as anxiety can worsen symptoms.

2. Try to identify the allergen and have the victim avoid further contact with it. If the allergic reaction is from a honey bee sting, scrape the stinger off the skin with something firm (such as a fingernail or plastic credit card). Do not use tweezers; squeezing the stinger will release more venom.

3. If the victim develops an itchyrash, apply calamine lotion and cool compresses. Avoid medicated lotions.

4. Watch the victim for signs of increasing distress.

5. Get medical help. For a mild reaction, a physician may recommend over-the-counter medications (such as antihistamines).

SUSPECTED SEVERE ALLERGIC REACTION (i.e., ANAPHYLAXIS)
1. Check the victim's airway, breathing and circulation (the ABC's of Basic Life Support). A warning sign for dangerous throat swelling is a very hoarse or whispered voice, or coarse sounds when the person is breathing air in. If the victim is having difficulty breathing, is very weak, or is losing consciousness, call for emergency medical assistance. If necessary, begin rescue breathing and CPR.

2. Calm and reassure the victim.

3. If the allergic reaction is from bee stings, scrape the stinger off the skin with something firm (such as a fingernail or plastic credit card). Do not use tweezers -- squeezing the stinger will release more venom.

4. If the victim has emergency allergy medication on hand, help the person take or inject the medication. Avoid oral medication if the victim is having difficulty breathing.

5. Take steps to prevent shock. Have the victim lie flat, elevate the person's feet about 12 inches, and cover him or her with a coat or blanket. DO NOT place the victim in this position if a head, neck, back, or leg injury is suspected or if it causes discomfort.

6. If the victim loses consciousness, apply first aid for unconsciousness and call 911 or your local emergency number.

• DO NOT Assume that any allergy shots the victim has already received will provide complete protection.
• DO NOT Place a pillow under the victim’s head if he or she is having trouble breathing. This can block the airway.
• DO NOT Give the victim anything by mouth if the victim is having trouble breathing.

• The victim's allergic reaction is severe or rapidly worsening (over minutes -- see above).
• The victim has a history of severe allergic reactions (check for a medical ID tag).

• Avoid triggers such as foods and medications that have caused an allergic reaction, even a mild one, in the past. This includes detailed questioning about ingredients when eating away from home. Ingredient labels should also be carefully examined.
• If you have a child who is allergic to certain foods, introduce one new food at a time so you can recognize an allergic reaction.
• A medical ID tag should be worn by people who know that they have serious allergic reactions.
• If you have a history of a serious allergic reactions, carry emergency medications (such as diphenihydramine and injectible epinephrine or a bee sting kit) according to your health care provider’s instructions.
• Do not use your injectible epinephrine on anyone else. They may have a condition (such as a heart problem) that could be affected by this drug.