Should I call 9-1-1 if someone is having an allergic reaction?

Call 9-1-1 or the local emergency number if the person:

• Has trouble breathing
• Complains of the throat tightening
• Explains that he or she is subject to severe allergic reactions
• Is unconscious

There are times when it is important to call 911 when someone is having an allergic reaction. If you are around a person who has a known anaphylactic (one of extreme sensitivity) reaction to an allergen and they are exposed to that allergen, calling 911 is the correct thing to do. Some people have mild reactions or have mild allergies to certain things and calling 911 is not necessary. However, if a person develops severe swelling of the face or any difficulty breathing, call 911 immediately. There are medications that can be used to treat severe allergic reactions, and it is important those treatments are started as quickly as possible.