<h1 id="page-title">Below is information about first aid that is required if you noticed allergic reaction.</h1>

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<p>For a mild to moderate allergic reaction:</p>

<p>Calm and reassure the person having the reaction. Anxiety can make symptoms worse.</p>

<p>Try to identify the allergen and have the person avoid further contact with it. If the allergic reaction is from a bee sting, scrape the stinger off the skin with something firm, such as a fingernail or plastic credit card. Do not use tweezers. Squeezing the stinger will release more venom.</p>

<ol>
	<li>If the person develops an itchy rash, apply cool compresses and an over-the-counter hydrocortisone cream.</li>
	<li>Watch the person for signs of increasing distress.</li>
	<li>Get medical help. For a mild reaction, a health care provider may recommend over-the-counter medications, such as antihistamines.</li>
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<p>For a severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis), check the person&#39;s airway, breathing, and circulation (the ABC&#39;s of Basic Life Support). A warning sign of dangerous throat swelling is a very hoarse or whispered voice, or coarse sounds when the person is breathing in air. If necessary, begin rescue breathing and&nbsp;<a href="http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/000010.htm">CPR</a>.</p>

<ol>
	<li>Call emergency.</li>
	<li>Calm and reassure the person.</li>
	<li>If the allergic reaction is from a bee sting, scrape the stinger off the skin with something firm (such as a fingernail or plastic credit card). Do not use tweezers -- squeezing the stinger will release more venom.</li>
	<li>If the person has emergency allergy medication on hand, help the person take or inject the medication. Avoid oral medication if the person is having difficulty breathing.</li>
	<li>Take steps to prevent&nbsp;<a href="http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/000039.htm">shock</a>. Have the person lie flat, raise the person&#39;s feet about 12 inches, and cover him or her with a coat or blanket. Do not place the person in this position if a head, neck, back, or leg injury is suspected or if it causes discomfort.</li>
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<h2><strong>DO NOT</strong></h2>

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	<li>Do not assume that any allergy shots the person has already received will provide complete protection.</li>
	<li>Do not place a pillow under the person&#39;s head if he or she is having trouble breathing. This can block the airways.</li>
	<li>Do not give the person anything by mouth if the person is having trouble breathing.</li>
</ul>

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<h2><strong>When to Contact a Medical Professional</strong></h2>

<p>Call emergency for medical assistance right away if:</p>

<ul>
	<li>The person is having a severe allergic reaction. Do not wait to see if the reaction is getting worse.</li>
	<li>The person has a history of severe allergic reactions (check for a medical ID tag).</li>
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<p>Source:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/000005.htm">http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/000005.htm</a></p>

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