Question 1

What is anaphylaxis?

Accepted Answer

Anaphylaxis is a severe, rapidly developing and potentially fatal systemic allergic reaction affecting the airway, breathing, circulation or multiple body systems [1].

Question 2

What is the first-line treatment for anaphylaxis?

Accepted Answer

Intramuscular adrenaline, also called epinephrine, is the first-line treatment and should be administered immediately when anaphylaxis is suspected [1].

Question 3

What should be done in Australia after using an adrenaline autoinjector?

Accepted Answer

Call triple zero (000) and ask for an ambulance, follow the current ASCIA Action Plan and keep the person safely positioned [1].

Question 4

Can anaphylaxis occur without a rash?

Accepted Answer

Yes. A person may have dangerous airway, breathing or circulatory symptoms without hives, itching or facial swelling [1].

Question 5

Should a person with anaphylaxis stand or walk?

Accepted Answer

No. They should generally be laid flat and must not stand or walk. A person struggling to breathe may sit with legs extended, while a pregnant person should generally lie on the left side [1].

Question 6

When may a second adrenaline dose be needed?

Accepted Answer

If symptoms do not improve after 5 minutes, another dose may be required according to the current ASCIA action plan and emergency instructions [1].

Question 7

Do antihistamines treat anaphylaxis?

Accepted Answer

Antihistamines may reduce some skin symptoms but do not treat airway obstruction, bronchospasm or shock and must never replace adrenaline [1].

Question 8

Can acupuncture treat anaphylaxis?

Accepted Answer

No. Acupuncture has no role in reversing anaphylaxis and must not delay adrenaline, ambulance activation or resuscitation [10].

Question 9

Can Chinese herbs prevent future anaphylaxis?

Accepted Answer

No Chinese herbal formula has been established as a reliable prevention for anaphylaxis. Herbs can themselves trigger serious allergic reactions [10].

Question 10

Why is medical observation needed after symptoms improve?

Accepted Answer

Symptoms can persist or recur after initial improvement, and the patient requires monitoring, trigger assessment and a future emergency plan [1].

Question 11

What follow-up is recommended after anaphylaxis?

Accepted Answer

Follow-up may include allergy-specialist assessment, an individual action plan, adrenaline-device prescription and training, trigger avoidance advice and psychological support when needed [1].

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