When Allergies Become a Medical Emergency
Most allergies are mild, but some can be life-threatening. Anaphylaxis is a severe allergic reaction that requires immediate medical attention.
Common Triggers of Anaphylaxis:
🔹 Peanuts & tree nuts
🔹 Shellfish & dairy
🔹 Insect stings (bees, wasps)
🔹 Certain medications (penicillin, NSAIDs)
Signs of a Severe Allergic Reaction:
🚨 Mild symptoms:
- Itchy skin, rash, or hives
- Sneezing or watery eyes
🚨 Severe symptoms (Anaphylaxis):
- Swelling of the face, tongue, or throat
- Difficulty breathing or wheezing
- Rapid or weak pulse
- Dizziness or fainting
- Nausea or vomiting
What to Do in an Allergy Emergency
Step 1: Ask About an EpiPen
If the person carries an epinephrine auto-injector (EpiPen), help them use it.
🔹 How to use an EpiPen:
1️⃣ Remove the safety cap
2️⃣ Hold it like a fist, orange tip pointing downward
3️⃣ Press firmly into the outer thigh (through clothing if necessary)
4️⃣ Listen for a click—this means the medication is injected
5️⃣ Hold in place for 3 seconds, then remove
6️⃣ Massage the area for 10 seconds
Step 2: Call 911 Immediately
Even if the person feels better after using the EpiPen, they still need medical attention. The reaction can return, requiring a second dose.
Step 3: Keep the Person Calm & Monitor Their Condition
✔ Have them sit or lie down in a comfortable position
✔ Watch for worsening symptoms
✔ If they stop breathing, be prepared to start CPR
🚨 No EpiPen available? Call 911 and stay with the person.
Quick Quiz: Allergic Reactions
1️⃣ What is anaphylaxis?
a) A mild allergic reaction
b) A severe allergic reaction that can be life-threatening
c) A reaction that only affects the skin
2️⃣ Which of these is NOT a common allergen?
a) Peanuts
b) Shellfish
c) Chocolate
3️⃣ What is the FIRST step when helping someone with an allergic reaction?
a) Give them water
b) Check if they have an EpiPen
c) Wait to see if symptoms get worse
4️⃣ True or False: If the person improves after using an EpiPen, you don’t need to call 911.
Final Thoughts: Lesson Recap
- Anaphylaxis is a life-threatening allergic reaction.
- Common triggers include nuts, shellfish, insect stings, and medications.
- Use an EpiPen immediately if available, then call 911.
- Always monitor the person—symptoms can return.
Are All Bites Dangerous?
Most animal bites are minor, but some can lead to serious infections or even rabies. Human bites, surprisingly, can be even more dangerous due to the number of bacteria in our mouths.
When to Seek Emergency Care 
A bite from an undomesticated, wild animal (raccoon, bat, fox, skunk, coyote) – Rabies risk! A deep or puncture wound – High risk of infection A bite on the face, hands, or joints – These areas are prone to complications Swelling, redness, pus, or fever – Signs of an infection
Step-by-Step First Aid for Animal Bites
If Bitten by a Wild or Unprovoked Animal
Control bleeding – Use a clean cloth to apply firm pressure.
Clean the wound thoroughly – Wash with warm water and anti-bacterial soap for at least 5 minutes.
Apply antibiotic ointment – Neosporin or a similar antiseptic helps prevent infection.
Cover with a sterile bandage – Change it frequently to keep the wound clean.
Seek medical care immediately – A rabies shot may be necessary!
Rabies Facts:
- Rabies is almost always fatal if symptoms appear.
- The rabies vaccine is effective only if given early after exposure.
- Bats, raccoons, skunks, foxes, and coyotes are the most common carriers.
If Bitten by a Domestic Pet (Dog or Cat)
Most domestic pet bites are NOT serious, but they can still cause infection. If the pet is vaccinated and shows no signs of rabies, monitor the wound and apply basic First Aid.
Treatment Steps:
Wash the area with soap and water Apply an antibiotic ointment (like Neosporin) Cover with a clean bandage and change it daily
See a doctor if:
- The pet was behaving aggressively or is not up-to-date on rabies shots.
- The bite gets red, swollen, or painful after a day or two.
Human Bites: More Dangerous Than You Think!
Believe it or not, human bites carry more bacteria than most animal bites and can lead to serious infections.
If someone breaks the skin with a bite: Wash the area thoroughly with soap and water Apply an antiseptic or antibiotic ointment Cover with a sterile bandage Monitor for signs of infection (redness, swelling, pus, fever)
See a doctor if:
- The bite is deep or bleeding heavily.
- There are signs of infection.
- The bite is near a joint, as infections can spread to the bones.
Quick Quiz: Animal & Human Bites
a) Dog
b) Squirrel
c) Raccoon
a) Cover the wound with a bandage
b) Wash the wound thoroughly with soap and water
c) Call 911 immediately
a) If it’s a small or large breed
b) Whether the pet is vaccinated for rabies
c) How hard it bit you
Final Thoughts: Lesson 2 Recap
Wild animal bites can lead to rabies, which requires immediate medical attention. Human bites often cause severe infections and may need antibiotics. Always wash the bite wound thoroughly with soap and water to prevent infection. Monitor for signs of infection—swelling, redness, pus, or fever mean you should see a doctor.
What is an Asthma Attack?
An asthma attack occurs when the airways become inflamed, swollen, and narrowed, making it difficult to breathe. Without treatment, an asthma attack can be life-threatening.
🚨 Asthma attacks can come on suddenly and range from mild to severe. Quick treatment is essential!
Causes & Triggers of Asthma Attacks
✔ Allergens (pollen, dust, pet dander, mold)
✔ Cold air or weather changes
✔ Exercise (especially in dry air)
✔ Smoke or strong odors (perfume, chemicals, pollution)
✔ Respiratory infections (cold, flu, bronchitis)
✔ Stress or anxiety
Signs & Symptoms of an Asthma Attack
🚨 Common warning signs include:
✔ Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
✔ Wheezing (whistling sound when breathing out)
✔ Tightness or pressure in the chest
✔ Coughing (especially at night or early morning)
✔ Pale or bluish lips, fingertips, or face (severe cases)
🚨 If breathing becomes extremely difficult, call 911 immediately!
First Aid for an Asthma Attack 🚨
Step 1: Stay Calm & Help the Person Stay Calm
✔ Panic can worsen breathing difficulties!
✔ Encourage slow, steady breaths.
Step 2: Help Them Use Their Inhaler
✔ Most asthma inhalers contain a bronchodilator (like albuterol) to open the airways.
✔ Follow these steps:
1️⃣ Shake the inhaler well.
2️⃣ Have the person exhale completely.
3️⃣ Place the inhaler mouthpiece between the lips (or use a spacer if available).
4️⃣ Have them inhale deeply while pressing the inhaler.
5️⃣ Hold the breath for 10 seconds, then exhale slowly.
6️⃣ Repeat if needed (as directed by their asthma action plan).
Step 3: Move the Person to a Safer Environment
✔ Get them away from smoke, strong odors, or allergens.
✔ Have them sit upright to make breathing easier.
Step 4: Call 911 if the Attack Worsens 🚨
✔ If the person’s breathing does not improve after using their inhaler, call for emergency help.
✔ If they are too weak to speak, are gasping for air, or turn blue, call 911 immediately.
💡 Even if symptoms improve, follow up with a doctor. Asthma attacks can return if left untreated.
When to Call 911 🚨
📌 Call 911 immediately if:
🚨 The inhaler does NOT help after multiple uses.
🚨 The person cannot speak more than a few words at a time.
🚨 Breathing is getting worse or they appear extremely weak.
🚨 Lips, fingernails, or face turn blue (sign of oxygen deprivation).
🚨 The person becomes unresponsive—start CPR if they stop breathing.
💡 Severe asthma attacks can be fatal—do not delay emergency care!
Quick Quiz: Asthma Attacks & First Aid
1️⃣ What is the FIRST thing you should do if someone is having an asthma attack?
a) Call 911 immediately
b) Help them stay calm and use their inhaler
c) Have them drink water
2️⃣ True or False: Asthma attacks can be triggered by allergens, smoke, stress, or exercise.
3️⃣ What should you do if the person’s inhaler is not working and their breathing worsens?
a) Keep trying the inhaler
b) Call 911 immediately
c) Wait and see if they improve on their own
4️⃣ What position is best for someone during an asthma attack?
a) Lying flat on their back
b) Sitting upright to make breathing easier
c) Curled up in a fetal position
Final Thoughts: Lesson Recap
✔ An asthma attack causes airway swelling and difficulty breathing.
✔ Common triggers include allergens, smoke, stress, and cold air.
✔ Help the person use their inhaler properly and keep them calm.
✔ Call 911 if their breathing does not improve or worsens.
What is Fainting?
Fainting (syncope) is a temporary loss of consciousness due to reduced blood flow to the brain. It usually lasts less than a minute, and the person regains consciousness quickly.
💡 Fainting is often preceded by warning signs like:
✔ Dizziness or lightheadedness
✔ Weakness or blurred vision
✔ Sudden sweating or nausea
First Aid for Fainting
✔ If someone feels dizzy and may faint:
1️⃣ Help them to the ground safely—support them to prevent injury.
2️⃣ Have them lie down and elevate their legs to improve circulation.
3️⃣ If they do not improve or symptoms worsen, call 911.
🚨 If someone faints and does NOT wake up immediately:
✔ Call 911 and check for breathing.
✔ Be prepared to start CPR if they become unresponsive.
Blood Sugar Emergencies: High vs. Low Blood Sugar
Fainting can also be caused by blood sugar imbalances, especially in people with diabetes.
1️⃣ Low Blood Sugar (Hypoglycemia) – Blood Sugar Too LOW
✔ Cause: Skipping meals, too much insulin, excessive exercise, or certain medications.
✔ Symptoms:
✅ Extreme lethargy or weakness
✅ Confusion or irritability
✅ Drowsiness or sweating
✅ Excessive thirst
💡 First Aid for Hypoglycemia:
✔ Give them something sugary to drink—fruit juice, cola, or glucose tablets.
✔ If they don’t improve within 10 minutes, call 911.
✔ DO NOT give food or drink if they are unconscious!
2️⃣ High Blood Sugar (Hyperglycemia) – Blood Sugar Too HIGH
✔ Cause: Poor diet, lack of insulin, stress, or illness.
✔ Symptoms:
✅ Extreme thirst
✅ Frequent urination
✅ Dry skin, nausea, or confusion
💡 First Aid for Hyperglycemia:
✔ Encourage the person to drink water.
✔ If they show signs of confusion, weakness, or vomiting, call 911 immediately.
🚨 Both low and high blood sugar can be life-threatening!
When to Call 911 🚨
📌 Call emergency services if:
🚨 The person remains unconscious after fainting.
🚨 They have trouble breathing or chest pain.
🚨 Symptoms do not improve within 10 minutes after giving sugar for low blood sugar.
🚨 They are confused or disoriented (possible diabetic emergency).
Quick Quiz: Fainting & Blood Sugar Emergencies
1️⃣ What is the FIRST thing you should do if someone says they feel dizzy?
a) Give them food immediately
b) Help them to the ground and elevate their legs
c) Call 911 immediately
2️⃣ True or False: If someone faints and does not regain consciousness quickly, you should call 911.
3️⃣ What is a common cause of low blood sugar (hypoglycemia)?
a) Too much food
b) Excessive insulin or skipping meals
c) Drinking too much water
4️⃣ What should you give someone with low blood sugar?
a) A glass of water
b) A sugary drink like fruit juice or cola
c) A salty snack
Final Thoughts: Lesson Recap
✔ Fainting is usually brief but may signal an underlying problem.
✔ Help a fainting person lie down with legs elevated to restore circulation.
✔ Diabetic emergencies can cause fainting due to high or low blood sugar.
✔ Give sugary drinks for low blood sugar, but call 911 if symptoms don’t improve.
Understanding Nosebleeds
A nosebleed occurs when the fragile blood vessels inside the nose break, leading to bleeding. While nosebleeds are usually harmless, they can be alarming. Most stop on their own with proper First Aid.
💡 Common Causes of Nosebleeds:
✔ Trauma – A fall, hit to the nose, or excessive nose-picking
✔ Dry air – Low humidity can dry out and crack nasal tissues
✔ Allergies & colds – Irritated nasal passages increase the risk
✔ High blood pressure – Can contribute to frequent nosebleeds
🚨 If the nosebleed follows a serious injury (head trauma or broken nose), seek medical attention!
First Aid for Nosebleeds
🚫 What NOT to Do:
❌ Do NOT tilt the head backward—this can cause blood to drain into the throat and stomach, leading to choking or nausea.
❌ Do NOT lie down—this may increase blood flow.
❌ Do NOT stuff tissues or cotton into the nose—this can make it worse.
✅ What to Do Instead:
1️⃣ Have the person sit upright—this reduces blood flow to the nose.
2️⃣ Loosen tight clothing around the neck.
3️⃣ Have them spit out excess saliva to prevent nausea.
4️⃣ Pinch the nostrils shut and press the tip of the nose against the bony part of the face.
5️⃣ Maintain pressure for 5 to 10 minutes without releasing.
6️⃣ Once bleeding stops, avoid nose-blowing or straining for at least an hour.
💡 If bleeding continues for more than 15 minutes, seek medical attention.
When to Call 911 🚨
Call emergency services if:
🚨 The nosebleed lasts longer than 15-20 minutes.
🚨 The person loses a significant amount of blood.
🚨 The bleeding occurs after a head injury or a broken nose.
🚨 The person has trouble breathing or is coughing up blood.
Quick Quiz: Nosebleeds & First Aid
1️⃣ What is the BEST position for someone with a nosebleed?
a) Lying flat on their back
b) Sitting upright, leaning slightly forward
c) Tilting their head backward
2️⃣ True or False: Pinching the nostrils shut for 5-10 minutes can help stop a nosebleed.
3️⃣ What should the person avoid doing after a nosebleed stops?
a) Drinking water
b) Blowing their nose or straining
c) Sitting upright
4️⃣ When should you seek medical help for a nosebleed?
a) If it lasts more than 15 minutes
b) If the bleeding is from one nostril only
c) If the person has allergies
Final Thoughts: Lesson Recap
✔ Most nosebleeds are minor and stop on their own with proper First Aid.
✔ Sit upright, pinch the nostrils shut, and apply pressure for 5-10 minutes.
✔ Do NOT tilt the head backward, lie down, or stuff tissues into the nose.
✔ Call 911 if the bleeding lasts over 15 minutes or follows a head injury.