Allergy
Mild to Moderate Allergic Reactions
For mild allergic reactions — hives, swelling of the lips or face, tingling — remove the trigger if known, give antihistamines if prescribed, and watch closely for any sign of anaphylaxis.
For mild allergic reactions — hives, swelling of the lips or face, tingling — remove the trigger if known, give antihistamines if prescribed, and watch closely for any sign of anaphylaxis.
Mild to moderate signs
- Swelling of the lips, face or eyes
- Hives (raised itchy welts) or rash
- Tingling in the mouth
- Abdominal pain, vomiting (insect allergy)
What to do
- Move the person away from the trigger if possible. Remove any visible bee sting by flicking it sideways.
- Stay with them and watch closely for any sign of anaphylaxis.
- Give antihistamines only if prescribed for that person.
- If the person has an action plan, follow it.
- Call 000 immediately if there is any breathing difficulty, swelling of the tongue or throat, hoarse voice, persistent cough, collapse, or dizziness — treat as anaphylaxis and use adrenaline.
People with a known severe allergy AND asthma should always use their adrenaline autoinjector first, then their asthma reliever.
Questions & answers
When does a mild allergy become anaphylaxis?
Any breathing difficulty, swelling of the tongue or throat, persistent dizziness, collapse, or wheeze — treat as anaphylaxis, give adrenaline if available, and Call 000.
Do antihistamines help anaphylaxis?
No. Antihistamines only help mild skin symptoms — they do not treat the life-threatening airway and circulation effects. Adrenaline is the only first-line treatment.
How long should I monitor someone after a reaction?
At least 4 hours in hospital after anaphylaxis. Biphasic reactions can occur up to 72 hours later, so seek medical follow-up.
Related topics
Anaphylaxis
Anaphylaxis is a life-threatening allergic reaction. Lay the person flat, give adrenaline (EpiPen) immediately, call 000, and give a second dose after 5 minutes if there is no improvement.
Asthma Attack — 4 x 4 x 4 Plan
Sit the person upright, give 4 puffs of a blue reliever puffer through a spacer (1 puff at a time, 4 breaths each), wait 4 minutes, repeat if no improvement. Call 000 if symptoms do not improve.
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