Anaphylactic ShockOf all the allergic reactions, anaphylactic shock is the most serious. While rare, it tends to strike those with severe allergies to insect stings, some foods, and certain drugs. Symptoms may be mild at first (itching, flushing of the skin, cramps) but can very quickly (within one or two minutes) become severe (swelling of the mouth and tongue, rapid heartbeat, breathing difficulty, collapse and unconsciousness, and death). If the victim has self-injectable adrenaline (typically in the form of an epinephrine pen known as an Epi-pen), help them administer it and seek medical attention at once.
Otherwise, follow these steps: - Don't panic.
- Get help.
- Keep the victim stabilized, calm, and warm. Loosen clothing.
- Call 911 or ask someone to do so.
- Check airways. Perform mouth-to-mouth resuscitation if the victim isn't breathing.
- Perform CPR if there is no pulse.
- If possible, note what caused the shock and report it to medical personnel.
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