The most common causes of allergic reactions in Australia are:
- dust mites
- foods such as eggs, milk, peanuts, sesame, seafood, soy and wheat.
- furry or hairy animals such as cats, dogs, horses, rabbits and guinea pigs
- insect stings from bees, wasps, ticks and ants
- medications
- moulds
- pollen.
Signs and symptoms
- Abnormal breathing—coughing, wheezing, shallow breathing
- Itchy or running nose
- Rash
- Red skin or hives located to one area of the body
- Tingling in the mouth
- Watery eyes
Management
- Ask the person if they have any allergies or if they are anaphylactic.
- If they are anaphylactic—manage as per treatment for anaphylaxis.
- If they have allergies—remove any exposure to potential allergens:
- for food allergy—ask the person to spit the food out and rinse out their mouth if the allergen is still in their mouth
- for bee allergy—flick out any identified bee sting as quickly as possible by any means.
- Ask the person if they have any allergy medications that they can take themselves.
- Reassure the person and advise them to see a medical practitioner if their condition becomes worse or they have been stung on the face.
Note
- Remember to ask a conscious person if they have a history of allergies and to reassure them.
- A cold compress can help reduce pain and swelling.
- Refer to the latest ARC Guideline for the management of Anaphylaxis or allergyfacts.org.au to learn more.