How should severity be assessed during an allergic reaction?

During an allergic reaction, assessing severity is crucial for determining the appropriate treatment and response. Examining for signs of anaphylaxis is the most critical approach in this context. Anaphylaxis is a severe, potentially life-threatening allergic reaction characterized by symptoms such as difficulty breathing, swelling of the throat or tongue, rapid heartbeat, and hypotension. Recognizing these signs enables EMS personnel to take immediate and necessary actions, such as administering epinephrine, to mitigate the life-threatening effects of the reaction.

While heart rate, prior allergy history, and temperature can provide some information about the patient's status, they do not directly indicate the severity of an allergic reaction. For instance, while heart rate changes can occur, they may not be specific to an allergic response. Prior allergy history can inform the clinician about potential reactions but does not assess the current severity. Temperature readings are more relevant in detecting infection or other medical concerns but are not indicative of the severity of an allergic reaction. Therefore, identifying signs of anaphylaxis is the most effective way to assess the severity during an allergic reaction.