Severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis)

Anaphylaxis is a severe, rapid allergic reaction that can become life-threatening within minutes. Possible symptoms include hives or widespread rash, swelling of the lips/face/throat, difficulty breathing or swallowing, a fast heartbeat, dizziness, and in severe cases, collapse.

It can be triggered by food (common examples include nuts, shellfish, or other allergens), insect stings, or medication, and can occur even if the passenger has not reacted this severely before.

Cabin crew responsibilities within training include recognizing the pattern quickly, asking about known allergies and whether the passenger carries their own emergency medication (such as a prescribed auto-injector), and assisting them to use their own medication according to the manufacturer's instructions and the airline's procedure, if they are unable to do it themselves.

This is treated as a time-critical emergency: senior crew and the flight deck are informed immediately, since anaphylaxis can worsen quickly and may require diversion or ground medical consultation.

Crew also ask if a doctor, nurse, or paramedic is on board, and continue monitoring breathing and responsiveness closely, since symptoms can return even after initial improvement.

Because exact allergens and medication protocols vary, and self-administered emergency medication must be used precisely as prescribed, this lesson builds awareness of the pattern and urgency — not a substitute for certified training on using specific emergency medical equipment.