An allergic reaction occurs when the immune system overreacts to a typically harmless substance known as an allergen. These allergens may enter the body through the skin, eyes, nose, lungs, digestive tract, or injection. Exposure can happen through inhalation, eating, touching, or stings.
When the immune system detects an allergen, it releases chemicals including histamine; this leads to inflammation and allergy symptoms.
Many everyday substances can trigger allergic reactions, including:
Foods: Peanuts, milk, eggs, wheat, soy, shellfish
Inhaled allergens: Pollen, mould spores, dust mites, and pet dander. These are often seasonal or environment-related
Medications: Antibiotics, chemotherapy drugs, insulin, and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
Insect venom: Bee, hornet, and wasp stings
Latex: Rubber-based products such as gloves, condoms, elastic bandages, and some sports equipment
Symptoms can range from mild to life-threatening and may affect the skin, respiratory tract, digestive system, or circulation.
Itching, redness, or hives
Localised or widespread rashes
Watery, itchy eyes
Sneezing, runny or blocked nose
Swelling of lips, tongue, face, or throat
Tightness or lump-in-throat sensation
Wheezing, difficulty breathing, or noisy breathing
Cramping abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea
Dizziness, light-headedness, or fainting
Seek medical evaluation if symptoms progress, persist, or are unclear.
Anaphylaxis is a severe, rapidly progressing allergic reaction that can be life-threatening. It commonly occurs after exposure to certain foods, medicines, or insect stings.
Immediate treatment with adrenaline (epinephrine) is critical. Delayed action increases the risk of airway obstruction, dangerously low blood pressure, and cardiac complications.
Relaxes airway muscles
Reduces swelling and hives
Improves breathing and circulation
Even after adrenaline is administered, emergency medical care is required, as symptoms may return.
Device techniques vary, so always follow your prescribed brand instructions. The general steps include:
Hold the device firmly in your dominant hand, needle end down.
Remove the safety cap.
Position against the outer thigh at a 90° angle.
Press until you hear/feel a click.
Hold for 3 seconds.
Remove and dispose of safely.
Stay calm and call an ambulance immediately.
If the person is conscious, let them know you are giving the injection.
Remove the safety cap.
Place the injector against the middle of their outer thigh at a right angle.
Press firmly until the mechanism activates and hold for 3 seconds.
Remove and safely discard the device.
If symptoms persist, a second dose may be given 5-10 minutes later under medical guidance.
Always carry your prescribed auto-injector or keep it accessible.
Ensure family, teachers, caregivers, and colleagues know how to use it.
Store at room temperature; avoid heat, freezing, or direct sunlight.
Check expiry dates regularly and replace when needed.
After using adrenaline, seek urgent medical care even if symptoms improve.
Identify triggers through medical evaluation or allergy testing.
Read food labels carefully if you have food allergies.
Inform healthcare providers about medication allergies.
Wear medical alert identification if at risk of anaphylaxis.
Follow specialist guidance on prevention and emergency planning.
Symptoms worsen or involve breathing difficulty, swelling, or fainting.
Over-the-counter antihistamines do not provide relief.
The trigger is unknown, sudden, or recurrent.
You have experienced anaphylaxis before.
If you have a history of allergies or suspect you may be at risk, early assessment matters. Book a consultation at Prince Court Medical Centre for allergy testing, prevention planning, and personalised treatment.
For severe allergic reactions, call an ambulance or go directly to the Accident & Emergency (A&E) Department.
Prince Court’s Accident & Emergency Services is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, led by experienced emergency physicians, nurses, and specialists who work together to provide rapid assessments, advanced diagnostics, and comprehensive treatment when every second counts.
Emergency Hotline: +603-2160 0999
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