Anaphylactic Shock
Anaphylaxis
What it is
Related sheets available: Allergy, Food Allergies or Intolerances
Signs of anaphylaxis
Symptoms of a severe allergic reaction (redness, itchy skin, or swelling of the lips, tongue or face), along with at least one of the following:
- A high-pitched sound when breathing (stridor) or difficulty breathing.
- Bluish or purplish lips or fingers.
- Feeling weak or dizzy, or loss of consciousness.
- A very rapid heartbeat.
- Stomach ache, vomiting or diarrhea (watery stools).
What you can do at home
If it is a severe allergic reaction, call 911 immediately.
- Inject epinephrine (e.g., EpiPen, Allerject or Emerade) as soon as possible, if available.
- Do not drive yourself to the emergency department. Ask someone else to drive.
How to use epinephrine (e.g., EpiPen, Allerject or Emerade)
- Follow the instructions provided by the pharmacist or those included with the epinephrine.
- Give a second dose of epinephrine after 10 minutes if symptoms continue.
While waiting for emergency services
- Loosen tight clothing.
- Lie down and raise your legs.
- Sit up if you have difficulty breathing.
- Lie on your side if vomiting occurs.
- Avoid sudden movements.
- For young children: help them stay calm and reassure them.
For pregnant people: lie on the left side.
When to go to the hospital right away
- even if symptoms improve or go away
- even if the injection was given by accident
Call Info-Santé at 811, Option 1, to speak with a nurse at any time.
Go to the pharmacy for advice on medications or treatment.
Make an appointment at your medical clinic or CLSC.
If you do not have a family doctor, go to gap.soinsvirtuels or call 811, Option 3.