Home care

In rare cases, anaphylactic shock can return within 24 to 48 hours. There is no way to know if this will happen. Call 911 right away if your symptoms return.

Here are some tips for home care:

• Ask your health care provider if you should carry epinephrine. This medicine will help to stop an allergic reaction until you can get medical help.

• Ask your provider for an Anaphylaxis Action Plan. This is usually a one-page plan that lists signs and symptoms of severe reaction. It lists emergency treatment for you. It can be shared with family members, friends, and others you see often.

• Talk to your provider about prescriptions and over-the-counter medicines before using them. Certain medicines may affect anaphylactic symptoms. In some cases, your doctor may suggest a different medicine.

• Learn how to use your epinephrine. There are different types available. Each will come with instructions. But have your provider or pharmacist show you how to use it.

• Always carry 2 doses of epinephrine. You sometimes need a second dose in 5 to 15 minutes if your symptoms are not getting better or start coming back.

• Check the expiration date of your epinephrine often. Don't leave it in the car. It can get overheated or freeze.

• Stay away from the things that cause your allergic reaction if you can.

• If you have a food allergy, always ask about ingredients when eating food made by others. At a restaurant, tell your server about your food allergies. Read all food labels for your allergen.

• Wear a medical ID bracelet that lists your allergy. Ask your provider how to get one.

• Tell your family, friends, and coworkers what to do if you have a severe allergic reaction. Include:

  • How to use epinephrine. Tell them to give you the medicine if you can't.

  • How to position you during a reaction. You should be lying down with your legs raised.

  • When to call 911. They should call right away.

  • When to start CPR. They should start CPR if you stop breathing.

• Tell all of your health care providers about your allergies.

Follow-up care

Make a follow-up appointment with your provider.

Call 911

Call 911 right away if you have:

• Fainting or loss of consciousness.

• Fast pulse.

• Trouble breathing or wheezing.

• Nausea or vomiting.

• Swelling of your lips, tongue, or throat.

• Itchy, blotchy skin or hives.

• Pale, cool, damp skin.

• Drowsiness.

• Confusion.