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Allergies, Asthma & Gluten-free
Allergy Basics
Allergy Basics
  • 1_epinephrine

    Six that Save Lives

    Epinephrine is the first-line medication which should be used in the emergency management of a person having a potentially life-threatening allergic reaction.In studies of individuals who have died of anaphylaxis, epinephrine was underused, not used at all, or administration was delayed.

  • 2_Antihistamines

    Six that Save Lives

    Antihistamines and asthma medications must not be used as first-line treatment for an anaphylactic reaction. They are acceptable as additional or secondary medication.

    This is an abridged version of the CSACI’s steps to follow in an anaphyactic reaction. See http://www.allergysafecommunities.ca
  • 3_emergency

    Six that Save Lives

    All individuals receiving emergency epinephrine must be transported to hospital immediately for evaluation and observation. The symptoms may recur and further injections may be required.

  • 4_epipentwinject

    Six that Save Lives

    Additional epinephrine must be available during transport. A second dose may be administered within 10 to 15 minutes, or sooner, after the first dose IF symptoms have not improved. The second dose should only be given [if] the reaction is continuing or getting worse.

  • 5_feeling faint

    Six that Save Lives

    Individuals with anaphylaxis who are feeling faint or dizzy should lie down unless they are vomiting or experiencing severe respiratory distress. To improve blood circulation, lift the person’s legs above the level of the heart, and keep the legs raised (e.g. by a pillow). If the person feels nauseated, lay them on their side, head down, to prevent aspiration of vomit.

  • 6_Assistance

    Six that Save Lives

    No person should be expected to be fully responsible for self-administration of an epinephrine auto-injector. Assistance is crucial.

    This is an abridged version of the CSACI’s steps to follow in an anaphyactic reaction. See http://www.allergysafecommunities.ca
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Fast Facts About Multiple Food Allergies

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Allergic Living acknowledges the assistance of the OMDC Magazine Fund, an initative of the Ontario Media Development Cooperation.