Understanding Allergy

What is an allergy

AllergyAn allergy is when your body’s immune system is triggered by substances that are usually harmless, such as pollen, certain foods or insect stings. Your immune system will respond to an allergen like it would when attacking a virus, which can cause mild symptoms like itching or rashes or, in more severe cases, can lead to anaphylaxis, a life-threatening condition.

The first signs of anaphylaxis may look like usual allergy symptoms, such as a running nose or a skin rash. But within minutes, more serious signs will begin to appear. Anaphylaxis can come on suddenly and worsen very quickly.

Allergy

How do you know if you have an allergy?

AllergyIf you suspect an allergy, contact your GP. They may ask about symptoms, frequency, and triggers, and may refer you to a specialist if needed.

Allergy diagnosis often involves a skin prick or patch test - where a small amount of allergen is put on your skin to see if it reacts. If needed, a blood test or an oral food challenge in a controlled environment may also be used.

Allergy

How can I support someone who has severe allergies?

AllergyLiving with severe allergies isn't just about avoiding certain foods or triggers—it's about navigating a world where everyday activities can pose serious risks. Whether it’s eating out, going to school, or taking a holiday, life with an allergy can be stressful and isolating.

In a survey of 200 patients, parents, or carers of individuals with anaphylaxis, 73% reported that severe allergies negatively impact their mental health.

That’s why Ready2React is here—to raise awareness, support the allergy community, and support the implementation of stricter protocols in public places.

You don’t have to be an expert to make a big difference. By learning how to recognise and respond to allergic reactions, you can be someone people with allergies trust and rely on.

Whether you’re a friend, teacher, colleague, or passerby – you can be an allergy ally.

Become an Allergy Ally and be S.A.F.E.R

Take action today and be someone those with allergies can rely on.

S – Spot the signs of anaphylaxis
Learn to recognise the ABC of anaphylaxis symptoms.
Airways: Swelling in the throat, tongue or upper airways
Breathing: Sudden onset wheezing, breathing difficulty, noisy breath
Circulation: Dizziness, feeling faint, sudden sleepiness, tiredness, confusion, pale clammy skin, loss of consciousness

A – Administer adrenaline when needed without delay
Know how and when to use an adrenaline pen. Confidence in using an adrenaline pen can save a life. Quick action counts.

F – Foster awareness through sharing resources and knowledge
62% of people believe that raising awareness is key to effective allergy management.
Talking openly about allergies at school, work or social events helps normalise the conversation. The more people who understand the risks, symptoms, and treatment, the safer we all become.

E – Encourage allergy-safe spaces  
Support allergy-friendly policies at home, school, work, restaurants, and events. This means advocating for:

  • Allergy action plans in schools
  • Stricter allergy protocols in public places where allergens could be encountered
  • More first-aid training across schools and workplaces, especially on recognising and responding to anaphylaxis

R – Rally as a support network
For allergy sufferers, a close circle of family, friends, and healthcare professionals provides a vital safety net. Expanding that circle to include more allies means more people who are ready to help - quickly and confidently.

Be informed. Be prepared. Be S.A.F.E.R

Together, we can create a more informed, more prepared, and more compassionate community. One that is truly Ready2React.

Allergy

Main signs and symptoms

The main signs that someone is experiencing anaphylaxis include:

symptoms

Biphasic anaphylaxis refers to a second allergic reaction that can occur 6-12 hours after the first, so it’s important to monitor for symptoms even after using an adrenaline pen Hives (urticaria) cause itchy red or white patches on the skin and usually resolve within 24 hours without medical help. However, if hives are accompanied by wheezing, severe diarrhoea, or vomiting, it may indicate anaphylaxis, requiring urgent medical attention.

Allergy management

AllergyIf you've been prescribed an adrenaline pen, always carry it with you. With the increasing number of allergy diagnoses, it's crucial to raise awareness about the importance of adrenaline pens and how to use them. Tanya Ednan-Laperouse OBE, Co-founder of the Natasha Allergy Research Foundation, emphasises the need to educate people of all ages on how to use adrenaline pens to reduce fear and improve safety.

“With a growing number of people being diagnosed with allergies, we really need to change the narrative around allergies in the UK and particularly about how to be safe. This is for people of all ages, whether that’s a child with a food allergy, a teenager or an adult who has just found out they have a food allergy. When we can raise awareness about adrenaline pens and teach people how to use them safely and appropriately, a lot of fear surrounding them disappears which will help keep people safe.” – Tanya Ednan-Laperouse OBE, Co-founder and Trustee, Natasha Allergy Research Foundation

It is recommended to carry two adrenaline pens for several reasons: if the first dose isn't effective, and if there’s a delay in reaching medical help, a second dose may be necessary.

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How to administer an adrenaline pen

If you or someone else is experiencing anaphylaxis, gently lay the person flat on the ground and raise their legs to help blood flow to the heart and vital organs. If you or the other person is struggling to breathe, you may prop yourself or them up, but try to lie back down again as soon as possible. Avoid sudden position changes, such as standing up quickly, as this can cause blood pressure to drop.

The correct use of the adrenaline pen could save a life. Inject the adrenaline into the muscle of the outer thigh, following the manufacturer’s instructions. The pen can go through clothing, so there’s no need to remove garments—but avoid seams, buckles, or anything in the pockets.

After administering the adrenaline, call 999 immediately and clearly state “ana-fill-axis.”
If there’s no improvement after five minutes—or if symptoms worsen—give a second injection using a second adrenaline pen.

In the UK, several brands of adrenaline pens are available. While they may appear similar, each has slightly different instructions for use. Manufacturers offer trainer devices, which can be ordered from their websites. These are ideal for practising and for teaching others how to use an adrenaline pen safely and effectively.

For more information on the correct use of your adrenaline pen click here

What to do after using an adrenaline pen?

Call 999 immediately after administering an adrenaline pen.

AllergyAsk for an ambulance and let them know that someone has suffered anaphylaxis (pronounced: ana-fill-axis). The ambulance may take a while to come, so stay with the person until help arrives. While waiting for the ambulance, they may need you to administer their second adrenaline pen. Encourage them to stay laying down until the ambulance team arrives, even if they say they’re feeling better.

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Adrenaline pen expiry dates

Adrenaline pens have expiry dates, so it’s important to check them regularly to ensure they’re ready for use in an emergency. In addition to the listed expiry date, a murky or discoloured liquid inside the pen can be a sign that the adrenaline pen needs replacing.

Unfortunately, 21% of people with severe allergies don’t realise their adrenaline pens expire.* To help with this, adrenaline pen manufacturers offer expiry alert services that send reminders to your smartphone. It's vital to be proactive and set these alerts up yourself, as healthcare services may not provide them.

* Ipsos survey for Viatris, April 2023 (n=200 UK Adrenaline Pen users/carers).

UK-NON-2025-00015 April 2025