anaphylaxis

Everyday

Anaphylaxis is a sudden, very serious allergic reaction that can quickly make it hard to breathe, cause swelling of the face, lips, tongue or throat, a rash, dizziness or fainting, and can kill if not treated straight away. tree →

In the lessons

In everyday life and safety, many schools have pupils with severe allergies (to peanuts, tree nuts, eggs, milk, bee stings); anaphylaxis is treated with an adrenaline auto-injector (EpiPen) and an emergency call (999, 911, 000, 112). Pupils learn not to share food, to tell an adult at once if someone looks unwell after eating, and that nut-free rules protect classmates. Phrases: «anaphylactic shock», «risk of anaphylaxis», «anaphylaxis plan».

Examples

• Anaphylaxis is a medical emergency. tree →
• Jack has a nut allergy and could go into anaphylaxis if he eats peanuts. tree →
• The teacher used an EpiPen to treat her anaphylaxis. tree →
• Signs of anaphylaxis include a swollen face and trouble breathing. tree →
• Call an ambulance straight away if you think someone has anaphylaxis. tree →
• Our school is nut-free to protect children at risk of anaphylaxis. tree →
• A bee sting can cause anaphylaxis in some people. tree →
• Never share food with a friend who has allergies. tree →

Note

Uncountable: «anaphylaxis» (no «a»). Pronounced an-uh-fuh-LAK-sis. Adjective «anaphylactic» («anaphylactic shock»). It is not a mild rash or sneezing: it is life-threatening and needs adrenaline and an ambulance even if the person seems to get better.