Did you know?

In Australia we are up there as one of the highest countries for incidences of food allergies. Unfortunately the numbers are on the rise; actually, reported incidences are growing at a really high rate. Currently, around 10% of Australians will develop a food allergy. Some of the more common causes of food allergies include tree nuts, peanuts, soy, dairy, gluten and seafood.

We’ve provided below some practical advice for identifying someone who is having an allergic reaction and how to help. This information is also available in infographic format below which was created by www.allergyfacts.org.au.

Some common symptoms of an allergic reaction

• Swelling of the face, lips, eyes, lips, tongue, throat
• Stomach pain and vomiting
• Hives and welts
• Dizziness, collapse, pale and floppy
• Difficulty breathing

What to do if someone has a moderate reaction

1. Stay with the person and call for help
2. Give medications prescribed
3. Locate an adrenaline injector (if available)
4. Call their emergency contact

What to do if someone has a severe reaction

1. Lay the person flat (sit up if they’re having trouble breathing.
2. Administer the adrenaline autoinjector
3. Call ambulance
4. Call emergency contact
5. After 5 minutes if there is no response or the reaction worsens, administer a second adrenaline autoinjector.

Food Allergy Week 2016

To get more information about Food Allergy Week visit this website.