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Anaphylactic shock

When seconds count: 10 life‑saving tips

A body suddenly failing, a breath too few – an anaphylactic shock can turn life upside down in seconds. It usually comes unexpectedly and can be life‑threatening, so quick action and clear knowledge are essential. In short, practical pointers we show what matters in the first minutes. But which steps really save lives?

Stay calm and reassure the affected person

Speak calmly, briefly explain the steps you will take and stay with the person. Reassurance reduces panic and makes it easier to carry out necessary measures.

Call emergency services immediately

If an anaphylactic shock is suspected, call 144 without delay, even if the person has already used their emergency kit. A shock can deteriorate rapidly and requires medical care.

Stop contact with the trigger

Prevent further exposure to the allergen by, for example, stopping an infusion, protecting against more insect stings, or preventing further food intake if a food allergy is suspected.

Choose the correct position according to symptoms

If the person has no breathing problems, place them flat with elevated legs (shock position). If they have breathing difficulty, sit them almost upright. If unconscious but breathing normally, place them in the recovery position.

Monitor vital signs and act in case of cardiac or respiratory arrest

Regularly check pulse, breathing and consciousness. If breathing stops, begin ventilation immediately. In case of cardiac arrest, start resuscitation at once (clear the airway, ventilate, chest compressions).

Use the adrenaline auto‑injector correctly

Remove the safety cap, press the auto‑injector firmly against the outer middle of the thigh (clothing does not need to be removed), listen for the click and hold the pen in place for about ten seconds. If the condition does not improve, a second injection may be required after 5–10 minutes.

Assist with the emergency kit

Support the affected person in handling the kit according to the instructions and help them administer sprays or tablets. Many people are unsure in a panic; practical help improves the chances of success.

Antihistamines and corticosteroids as adjuncts

Administer antihistamines and, if indicated by a physician, corticosteroids as complementary measures. They act more slowly than adrenaline and do not replace it in a severe reaction.

Provide and pass on relevant information

On arrival of the emergency services, show the anaphylaxis card with triggers and medication dosages. Also report the time, medications given and the symptoms observed.

Who should receive an emergency kit

Emergency kits are typically prescribed for people who have already experienced anaphylaxis (when the trigger cannot be safely avoided), for people with mastocytosis, for those who have had severe reactions to tree nuts, or for individuals who are highly sensitive to small amounts of an allergen.

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editorial.facts

If a person has already experienced anaphylaxis, the sensitisation remains – a repeat contact with the same trigger can cause a similarly severe reaction again.
Roughly speaking, about one in 10,000 people experiences an anaphylactic reaction each year, while registry data report around two to three cases per 100,000 people.
In children, food is the most common cause at around 60 %, followed by insect stings and medications. In adults, insect stings and medications lead to anaphylaxis more often than foods.
In about 5–20 % of cases, symptoms recur six to 24 hours after the initial reaction, so medical observation is advisable even after an apparent improvement.

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