What to Do During a Severe Allergic Reaction

A severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) can escalate from mild symptoms to life-threatening in minutes. Warning signs include swelling of the face, lips, or throat, difficulty breathing, hives spreading rapidly, dizziness, and a sudden drop in blood pressure. If the person has an epinephrine auto-injector (EpiPen), use it immediately — inject into the outer thigh, even through clothing.

Call emergency services right away, even after using the EpiPen — the reaction can return. Keep the person lying down with legs elevated unless they are having trouble breathing (then let them sit up). Do not give food or water. Stay with them until help arrives. If you have known allergies, always carry your auto-injector and make sure people around you know where it is and how to use it.