Anaphylaxis: how to recognise and manage in primary care

Anaphylaxis is an immune-mediated reaction, which typically occurs when a person is exposed to a trigger, for example a food, drug, or insect sting. Onset of symptoms after exposure to a trigger can be within minutes or up to several hours later – this can be influenced by the route of exposure to the trigger, or the amount of allergen they are exposed to. In some instances, there can be no trigger established: this is known as ‘idiopathic anaphylaxis’ (Resuscitation Council United Kingdom [RCUK], 2021).

Anaphylaxis can be defined as:

‘a serious systemic hypersensitivity reaction that is usually rapid in onset and may cause death. Anaphylaxis is characterized by potentially life-threatening compromise in airway, breathing and/or the circulation, and may occur without typical skin features or circulatory shock being present.’

(Cardona et al, 2020)

It is estimated that 1 in 300 people in Europe will experience anaphylaxis in their lifetime (Panesar et al, 2013). The incidence of anaphylaxis has increased significantly in recent years; it is estimated that there are around 20 deaths each year due to anaphylaxis in the UK (Turner et al, 2015). Therefore, it is important that health professionals can recognise and manage this life-threatening emergency. It is recommended that staff who give immunisations should have annual updates in the treatment of anaphylaxis (RCUK, 2021).