How to Treat Severe Allergic Reactions in the Wilderness
- 1). Know in advance what your companions are allergic to and where they keep their inhalers, epinephrine kits and allergy medications. Consider wearing a medic alert bracelet if you know you are susceptible to anaphylactic shock.
- 2). Learn to identify the signs and symptoms of anaphylaxis: difficulty breathing, wheezing, rash, itching, hives, swelling of the feet, hands, eyes or face, flushed skin, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, rapid pulse.
- 3). Remove the person from contact with the allergen, if the allergen is suspected to be something in the air or on the skin.
- 4). Administer injectable epinephrine (adrenaline) immediately if the person is having difficulty talking or breathing. Epinephrine is usually prescribed in an Anakit or Epipen with a preloaded syringe, and injected intramuscularly in the thigh for rapid absorption.
- 5). Monitor airway, breathing and circulation.
- 6). Treat for shock.
- 7). Inject a second dose of epinephrine within 12 to 15 minutes after the first dose was administered, to prevent a relapse. Most kits contain at least two doses.
- 8). Administer an oral antihistamine once the epinephrine has taken effect and the person is able to take the medication by himself or herself.
- 9). Hydrate well.
- 10
Evacuate immediately, administering oral antihistamines at regular intervals until the person has reached professional medical care.
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