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Anaphylaxis – What It Is, Why It Matters, and How Emergency Treatment Is Evolving

Updated: Feb 6

Anaphylaxis is a severe, life threatening allergic reaction that can develop rapidly and without warning.  It requires immediate recognition and prompt treatment.  While it is relatively rare, when it does occur the consequences can be catastrophic if action is delayed.


For anyone responsible for others at work, in education, or within the community, understanding anaphylaxis is not optional.  It is a critical first aid skill.




What is anaphylaxis?


Anaphylaxis is an extreme allergic reaction that affects the whole body.  It is caused by the immune system overreacting to a trigger and releasing chemicals that lead to airway swelling, breathing difficulties, circulatory collapse, and potentially cardiac arrest.


Common triggers include:


  • Foods such as nuts, shellfish, milk, eggs, or sesame

  • Insect stings

  • Medications

  • Latex



The reaction can develop within minutes, but in some cases symptoms may build more gradually.  This unpredictability is what makes anaphylaxis so dangerous.




Signs and symptoms of anaphylaxis


Symptoms often involve more than one body system and may include:


  • Swelling of the lips, tongue, or throat

  • Difficulty breathing or noisy breathing

  • Wheezing or persistent coughing

  • Dizziness or collapse

  • Pale, clammy skin

  • A rapid pulse

  • Confusion or loss of consciousness



A key warning sign is airway compromise.  If the airway is swelling or breathing becomes difficult, immediate action is required.




Why adrenaline is the first line treatment


The primary treatment for anaphylaxis is adrenaline.  Adrenaline works by:


  • Opening the airways

  • Reducing swelling

  • Increasing blood pressure

  • Supporting circulation



Adrenaline must be given as soon as anaphylaxis is suspected.  Delaying administration is one of the biggest risk factors for poor outcomes.


Adrenaline is safe to give when anaphylaxis is suspected, and the risks of not giving it far outweigh the risks of giving it unnecessarily.


Adrenaline auto injectors displayed next to almonds to illustrate treatment for severe allergic reactions.

Traditional adrenaline auto injectors


For many years, adrenaline has been delivered using auto injectors such as EpiPen and Jext.


These devices are designed to be:


  • Portable

  • Simple to use

  • Effective in emergency situations



They remain a critical and proven treatment option and continue to save lives every year.


However, they are not without challenges.  Some people struggle with:


  • Fear of needles

  • Hesitation during high stress situations

  • Incorrect technique

  • Reluctance to carry or use the device



These human factors can delay treatment when every second matters.




A new option – needle free adrenaline


A significant development in emergency allergy care is the introduction of EURneffy, a needle free adrenaline nasal spray now approved for use in the UK.


EURneffy delivers adrenaline through the nasal lining, allowing rapid absorption into the bloodstream without the need for an injection.


This does not replace traditional auto injectors, but it does offer an additional option that may increase confidence and speed of treatment for some individuals.


Eurneffy adrenaline 2 mg nasal spray device shown upright with labelled packaging indicating single use nasal administration.

Why needle free options matter


In real emergencies, human behaviour matters as much as clinical guidance.


A needle free option may help:


  • People with needle anxiety

  • Younger users or carers

  • Bystanders who hesitate when faced with an injection

  • Situations where speed and simplicity are essential



By reducing barriers to action, needle free adrenaline may help ensure that adrenaline is given earlier, which is one of the most important predictors of survival.



Important safety message


Whether adrenaline is delivered by injection or nasal spray, the following rules still apply:


  • Adrenaline is a first response, not a cure

  • Emergency services must always be called immediately

  • The person must be monitored closely until help arrives

  • A second dose may be required if symptoms do not improve



No adrenaline product replaces the need for urgent medical assessment after an anaphylactic reaction.




The role of first aid training


Devices and treatments evolve, but training remains essential.


At DTMK Training Services, we ensure our first aid courses reflect:


  • Current guidance

  • Emerging treatments

  • Real world decision making

  • Confidence under pressure



Learners do not just practise techniques.  They learn when to act, how to act, and why hesitation can be dangerous.


Understanding anaphylaxis is about more than recognising symptoms.  It is about being prepared to act decisively when someone’s life depends on it.




Final thoughts


Anaphylaxis is unpredictable, fast moving, and potentially fatal.  Early recognition and rapid administration of adrenaline saves lives.


With the arrival of needle free options like EURneffy alongside established auto injectors such as EpiPen and Jext, emergency allergy care is becoming more accessible and more adaptable to real human behaviour.


The most important factor remains the same.

Someone must recognise the emergency and act.





 
 
 

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