Severe allergic reactions rising in the UK

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Severe allergic reactions are rising

NHS admissions for anaphylaxis have more than doubled over the past two decades, increasing from 12,361 in 2002-03 to 25,721 in 2022-23.

Cases of food-related anaphylaxis also rose significantly, from 1,971 in 2002-03 to 5,013 in 2022-23.

This surge represents a notable increase in the number of individuals experiencing severe allergic reactions that necessitate hospital care.

MHRA reinforces anaphylaxis guidance as hospital admissions rise.

Anaphylaxis UK recently reported a 16.8% increase in allergy and anaphylaxis admissions for children under the age of 18 during 2021-2022 compared to 2020-2021, although these figures remain below pre-pandemic levels.

Over the past five years, there has been a marked rise in the number of children admitted to hospitals in England for severe allergic reactions, according to recent NHS data.

Why are we seeing more severe allergic reactions?

Scientists believe that various factors, such as changes in diet, exposure to pollution, and reduced contact with microbes, can affect how our immune system responds to allergenic threats.

Environmental factors linked to Western lifestyles may influence allergies and increase sensitivity to certain foods.

Research indicates that individuals who migrate to a new country tend to have a higher prevalence of food allergies compared to those from their country of origin, further highlighting the role of environmental influences.

While there is no definitive explanation for the rising incidence of food allergies, scientists propose several theories.

One theory suggests that improved hygiene means children experience fewer infections.

Since infections utilise similar mechanisms to address allergic reactions, a lack of infections may lead the immune system to target harmless substances mistakenly.

What are the most common triggers?

The most common triggers of  severe allergic reactions;

  • Milk
  • Eggs
  • Peanuts
  • Tree nuts (Walnuts, Almonds, Pine nuts, Brazil nuts, Pecans)
  • Sesame seeds
  • Fish
  • Shellfish (Crustaceans and Molluscs)
  • Wasps or Bee stings
  • Latex
  • Some medicines, such as Antibiotics and Aspirin

Even the smallest exposure can trigger severe allergic reactions, which can quickly bring on respiratory difficulties, a raised heart rate, and then loss of consciousness.

Have you noticed

In a growing number of food outlets, they are starting to ask if you have any known food allergies when you order from them, which is an excellent start in ensuring the food we eat is free from ingredients that may cause a severe allergic reaction.

Food is starting to be better labelled, too, especially food on the go, such as sandwiches, etc.

Learn more about severe allergic reactions

Enrol in a first aid course as soon as possible, so in the event of someone having a severe allergic reaction, you will have the skills and knowledge to help that person.

We teach you how to provide first aid treatment to a casualty suffering from a severe allergic reaction on our First Aid at Work and Paediatric First Aid courses.

Additionally, our half-day course on Responding to Anaphylactic Reactions is a standalone offering that is also gaining popularity.

All of our first aid courses are Ofqual-regulated and accredited by Qualifications Network UK (QNUK)

Conclusion

A severe allergic reaction can occur anywhere and very often with no warning.

Having the right skills and knowledge can really help this person ensure they receive the treatment and support they need promptly.

It could be a family member, a work colleague, a friend, or a stranger on the street, so having those essential first aid skills can make a real difference to someone who is having a challenging day.

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