Signs of a reaction
Why does it occur?
How is it treated?

Symptoms of anaphylaxis are likely to include any of the following:1,2

Difficulty/noisy
breathing

Swelling of
tongue

Swelling/tightness
in the throat

Difficulty talking
and/or hoarse voice

Wheeze or
persistent cough

Persistent dizziness
or collapse

Loss of consciousness and/or collapse or becoming pale and floppy (in young children)

Symptoms of a mild to moderate allergic reaction may include:2

Swelling of lips,
face and eyes

Hives or welts

Tingling mouth

Abdominal pain,
vomiting

(these are signs of
anaphylaxis or severe
allergic reaction for
insect allergy)

Always carry your EpiPen® Auto-Injector, if it’s with you, it could save you.3,4

Explore signs & symptoms

Why does anaphylaxis occur?

Anaphylaxis can occur in people who are exposed to an allergen to which they are allergic.1

The role of our immune system is to protect us from ‘foreign invaders’. In people with anaphylaxis, the immune system 'overreacts' to the allergen. Contact with, or ingestion of this allergen sets off a chain reaction in the immune system that may lead to anaphylaxis.5

Several factors can influence the severity of allergic reaction.1

  • Exercise
  • Heat
  • Alcohol
  • Food - the amount eaten, and how it is prepared
EPI-2023-0167. TAPS NP20090.                                                       

How is anaphylaxis treated?

Anaphylaxis is both preventable and treatable.

Knowing your triggers and avoiding them is the best way to help prevent an anaphylactic event.1,6

A referral to a clinical immunology or allergy specialist will help you to identify your triggers and learn the best ways to avoid them and prevent anaphylaxis.1

However, no matter how careful you are, accidental exposure to a trigger can happen. That’s why it’s so important to be prepared.

Have an ASCIA Action Plan for anaphylaxis that you have discussed with your GP or specialist. The action plan will help you recognise symptoms of anaphylaxis, understand what steps to take if you or your child is experiencing anaphylaxis.

Download your action plan

Make sure you always carry your EpiPen® Auto-Injector – and know how to use it.1,8

Register your EpiPen<sup>®</sup>Auto-Injectors

When a person is experiencing anaphylaxis, administer EpiPen® Auto-Injector as soon as possible.6

Signs & symptoms

Help is available

You can find more help and advice on living with allergies and
anaphylaxis from the following organisations:

ASCIA is the peak professional body for clinical immunology and allergy in Australia and New Zealand. The ASCIA website www.allergy.org.au/anaphylaxis provides accessible, consistent and evidence based resources, education and training about anaphylaxis for health professionals, patients, carers and community.

Visit ASCIA

Allergy New Zealand has been offering reliable information, education and support to all New Zealanders for over forty years, helping caregivers and patients to manage allergies and live an active and healthy lifestyle.

Visit www.allergy.org.nz