Allergies and Anaphylactic Shock

An allergy is an abnormal reaction by the immune system to an allergen. Commo allergy triggers are pollen, dust, nuts, shellfish, wasps, latex, and certain medications e.g. penicillin antibiotics. An allergy can present as a mild itching, swelling, wheezing, skin redness or rash, vomiting and diarrhoea and can progress to anaphylaxis or anaphylactic shock.

Steps to manage an allergic reaction:

1. Assess the player SABCDE and record signs and symptoms. Check their SAMPLE history, specifically known allergies.
2. Remove the trigger or move the player from the source of allergen
3. Treat any symptoms – allow the casualty to take their own medication for a known allergy.
4. If concerned seek medical advice, if progressing call for an ambulance.

Anaphylactic Shock

This is a severe allergic reaction affecting the whole body and may occur suddenly and rapidly. The body’s immune system will overreact to the allergen resulting in the release multiple inflammatory mediators such as histamine,  causing blood vessels to dilate resulting in a fall in blood pressure. Air passages may narrow resulting in breathing difficulties, and the tongue and throat may swell. The player may develop vomiting and diarrhoea and develop an extensive itchy rash with the potential for urticaria.

Steps to manage anaphylactic shock:

1. Call for emergency help informing you have a player with anaphylaxis
2. If the player has an adrenaline auto injector help them to use it by injecting into the outer (lateral) aspect of the thigh.
3. Help the player to sit up to aid any breathing difficulty but if they become pale with a weak pulse help them lie down and with legs raised.
4. Reassess and record the players vital signs while waiting for help to arrive
5. A repeated dose of adrenaline via an auto injector may be given at 5 minute intervals if no improvement.