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How to Spot Someone Having an Allergic Reaction - And What to Do Next

Updated: Sep 27


The image depicts a woman with a plate of seafood and a allergic rash on her arm which she is scratching.

Allergic reactions can happen anywhere; in the workplace, at home, at school, or even while out for a meal with friends. Some reactions are mild and manageable, while others can be severe and life-threatening. That’s why recognising the early warning signs and knowing what action to take can make all the difference.


What Is an Allergic Reaction?


An allergic reaction occurs when the immune system identifies a normally harmless substance (like certain foods, insect stings, medications, or latex) as a threat. This triggers a defence response, which can range from mild symptoms like a rash to a severe condition known as anaphylaxis.


For some people, allergies are a daily inconvenience. For others, exposure to a trigger can lead to a medical emergency within minutes. This is why first aid knowledge is so important, not just for health professionals, but for anyone working in public-facing or team-based roles.


Image shows a woman gasping with her hand on her chest due to an allergic reaction.
Difficulty breathing is a key sign of anaphylaxis. Learn how to respond with confidence through FAB Training’s allergy and first aid courses.

Common Signs of an Allergic Reaction


Early symptoms can appear within seconds or minutes of contact with the allergen. Key signs to look for include:


  1. Swelling of the face, lips, eyes, tongue, or throat

  2. Difficulty breathing or noisy breathing (wheezing)

  3. Rash or hives: raised, red, and itchy patches on the skin

  4. Flushed or warm skin

  5. Feeling faint, lightheaded, or dizzy

  6. Swollen hands or feet

  7. Nausea, vomiting, or stomach pain


Not all symptoms appear at once, and they can escalate quickly. Don’t wait for them all to present... if someone is showing even a few signs, it’s best to act.



What Is Anaphylaxis?


Anaphylaxis is a serious allergic reaction that comes on rapidly and can become fatal if not treated immediately. It affects multiple systems in the body and requires urgent medical help.


Watch for these symptoms:


  1. Trouble breathing or tightness in the chest

  2. Difficulty swallowing

  3. Swollen tongue or throat

  4. Hoarse voice or trouble speaking

  5. Feeling faint, weak, or drowsy

  6. Loss of consciousness or collapse


If you suspect someone is experiencing anaphylaxis, treat it as a life-threatening emergency.


What To Do If You Suspect Anaphylaxis


1. Call 999 immediately.

Tell the operator you suspect anaphylaxis. This ensures the right emergency response is prioritised.


2. Help the person use their adrenaline auto-injector (EpiPen).

Most individuals with known severe allergies carry an auto-injector. Follow the instructions on the device or ask them how to use it. Inject into the outer thigh (through clothing is fine) and hold for 5-10 seconds, depending on the brand.


3. Keep them calm and monitor their breathing.

Encourage them to sit upright if they are struggling to breathe. If they are feeling faint or have collapsed, lie them down with legs raised. If unconscious but breathing, place them in the recovery position.


4. Give a second dose if necessary.

If symptoms haven’t improved after 5 minutes, and they have a second injector, administer it.


5. Stay with them until help arrives.

Continue monitoring breathing and level of consciousness. Be prepared to give CPR if necessary.


Image shows seated person in jeans and a T-shirt using an epi-pen in their outer thigh.

Who Is at Risk?


Allergies affect millions of people, and the most common triggers include:


🥛 Certain foods (e.g. peanuts, tree nuts, shellfish, eggs, milk)

🐝 Insect stings (e.g. bees, wasps)

💊 Medications (e.g. antibiotics, aspirin)

🧤 Latex or rubber-based products (e.g use by medical staff)


Some individuals may not be aware they are allergic until they have a reaction, so it’s important to stay alert, especially in schools, kitchens, offices, and outdoor environments.



Be Prepared: First Aid Training Can Save Lives


At FAB Training, we teach people how to recognise and respond to allergic reactions confidently. Our courses include hands-on instruction in the use of adrenaline auto-injectors, recognising early signs of anaphylaxis, and taking the right steps under pressure.


Whether you’re booking for your workplace, school, community group, or team, our certified First Aid at Work, Paediatric First Aid, and Basic Life Support courses are designed to help you stay calm and act quickly.


Book your first aid course with FAB Training today and give your team the skills to respond when it matters most.




FAB Training – Saving Lives Together


Danny Phillips


Founder & Director



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