Internal Medicine, by video or in person
Allergic Reactions and Anaphylaxis
The signs, the danger signs that mean hospital now, and how to see a doctor by video from anywhere in Nigeria.
Signs to look for
Allergic Reactions and Anaphylaxis
- Itchy rash or hives
- Swelling of the lips, eyes or face
- Sneezing, a runny nose or itchy eyes
- Tummy pain, nausea or vomiting
- In anaphylaxis: swelling of the tongue or throat, a hoarse voice, wheeze, difficulty breathing or swallowing
An allergic reaction is the immune system overreacting to something usually harmless, such as a food, a medicine, an insect sting or latex. Mild reactions cause itchy hives, sneezing or watery eyes and settle with antihistamines. Anaphylaxis is a severe reaction that can develop within minutes and affects breathing or circulation: swelling of the throat or tongue, wheezing, difficulty breathing, a weak pulse or collapse. Anaphylaxis is an emergency that needs an adrenaline injection. Anyone who has had one should see a doctor afterwards to find the cause and plan how to stay safe.
Medically reviewed by Dr Debo Odulana, Founder and Chief Executive, Mezo. Last reviewed . This page is general information, not a diagnosis. Care is decided with you after an examination.
Symptoms
- Itchy rash or hives
- Swelling of the lips, eyes or face
- Sneezing, a runny nose or itchy eyes
- Tummy pain, nausea or vomiting
- In anaphylaxis: swelling of the tongue or throat, a hoarse voice, wheeze, difficulty breathing or swallowing
- In anaphylaxis: feeling faint, a weak pulse, pale clammy skin or collapse
When to See a Doctor
Go to a hospital emergency department now, or call 112, for any swelling of the tongue or throat, difficulty breathing or swallowing, wheeze, feeling faint or collapse. Use an adrenaline auto-injector first if one has been prescribed, then go. See a doctor for reactions that keep happening, a reaction to a food or medicine you need to avoid, or hives that last more than six weeks.
Treatment options
- Avoiding the trigger once it is known
- Antihistamine tablets for mild reactions
- An adrenaline injection immediately for anaphylaxis, then hospital care
- Steroid medicine for some reactions, prescribed by a doctor
- Referral for allergy testing after a severe reaction
- An adrenaline auto-injector and an action plan for people at risk of anaphylaxis
Common Questions
Can a mild reaction turn into anaphylaxis?
It can, especially in the first hour after exposure. Watch closely, and go to hospital immediately if breathing, swallowing or alertness changes.
Can a doctor help by video?
For a mild reaction that has settled, or to plan what to do next, yes. For any sign of anaphylaxis, go to a hospital now, not a call.
How do I find out what I am allergic to?
A doctor takes a careful history of what happened and when, and may arrange skin-prick or blood tests with an allergy specialist.
Need Help?
A doctor on a video call, who advises on the right test and treatment, and tells you if you need to be seen in person.
See a doctor by videoIf any of the danger signs on this page applies, go to the nearest hospital now instead.
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