Condition care

Anaphylaxis Management

Know the signs. Know what to do. Be prepared.

We help patients and families understand their allergy risks, use epinephrine correctly and develop a clear emergency plan.

How to get an assessment

Allergy emergency kit with epinephrine auto-injectors on a table beside a child and physician
The basics

What is anaphylaxis?

Anaphylaxis is a potentially life-threatening allergic reaction that can develop quickly. It may involve symptoms affecting the:

  • Skin
  • Mouth or throat
  • Breathing
  • Stomach
  • Heart and circulation

Reactions do not always look the same, even in the same person.

The most important treatment: epinephrine

Epinephrine is the first-line treatment for anaphylaxis. Antihistamines and asthma inhalers should not replace epinephrine when anaphylaxis is suspected.

Our role

What we can help with

  1. Identifying your risk

    We review previous reactions and suspected triggers.

  2. Epinephrine training

    We show you when and how to use your prescribed epinephrine device.

  3. Emergency planning

    We help create or review your personalized Anaphylaxis Action Plan.

  4. Trigger management

    We discuss practical ways to reduce accidental exposure.

  5. School, work and travel preparation

    We can discuss strategies for managing allergies outside your home.

Emergency steps

If anaphylaxis happens

Food Allergy Canada recommends:

  1. Give epinephrine

    At the first sign of a known or suspected anaphylactic reaction.

  2. Call 911

    Do this immediately after giving epinephrine.

  3. A second dose may be given

    As early as 5 minutes later if there is no improvement.

  4. Go to the hospital

    For evaluation and observation.

  5. Contact your emergency contacts

    Let the appropriate people know what happened.

Next step

Getting an assessment

Anaphylaxis planning is part of an allergist assessment.

Assessments are by referral, and patients cannot book directly. Ask your family doctor, walk-in clinic, or another healthcare provider to fax a referral to 416 850 9993. Our team reviews it and contacts you to arrange the appointment.

If you are unsure whether this service applies to you, you are welcome to ask us a question first.

Ask a question Referral form for physicians

Want a clear plan for severe reactions?

How to get an assessment