How to Slow Anaphylactic Shock Once It's Occurring

Anaphylactic shock (anaphylaxis) can occur when a chemical that has become an allergy enters your body. The body responds to the foreign allergen by suddenly releasing histamine in different tissues. This sudden release of histamine can cause the body to swell. An extreme case of anaphylactic shock can lead to the closure of a person's throat. Anaphylaxis can be slowed by injecting medication and positioning a person's body a certain way.

Things You'll Need

• Allergy medication
• Diphenhydramine
• Epinephrine pen
• Blanket

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Instructions

• 1

  Call 911 if you or someone you know is experiencing anaphylactic shock. The condition can be life-threatening and needs to be treated by a medical professional immediately.

• 2

  Remove the allergen that caused the anaphylactic shock. For example, if the anaphylactic shock was caused by a bee sting, remove the stinger by scraping it from the skin. Do not squeeze the end of the stinger while removing it. The end of the stinger will contain a sac of venom.

• 3

  Ingest allergy medication or diphenhydramine, the leading ingredient in Benadryl. Allergy medication and diphenhydramine act as antihistamines and slow the effects of anaphylactic shock once it's occurring.

• 4

  Push an epinephrine pen into your thigh after removing the cap and reading the injection instructions. Epinephrine simulates adrenaline and acts to keep your air way open during anaphylactic shock. Epinephrine pens are often carried by people who are at risk of anaphylaxis.

• 5

  Lie flat on your back with your feet elevated 12 inches, then cover yourself with a blanket. Do not lay down if it is uncomfortable or if you have an injury to your head, neck, back or legs.