East Suffolk and North Essex outpaces national rise in hospital allergy admissions

Why it matters: The rise in admissions at East Suffolk and North Essex NHS Foundation Trust reflects a concerning national pattern, with potentially life-threatening allergic reactions requiring swift medical intervention.

By the numbers:

• 235 admissions for allergic reactions at the Trust in 2023-24
• Up from 175 admissions the previous year – a 34% increase
• 26% increase in admissions across England
• National figures have more than doubled from 12,400 in 2002-03 to 32,300 in 2023-24

What they're saying: Dr Helen Evans-Howell, chair of the clinical and scientific panel at Anaphylaxis UK, said it was not clear why admissions are rising. She cited several possible explanations, including:

• Later introduction of foods to infants
• Changes to gut bacteria
• The "hygiene hypothesis" - suggesting limited early exposure to certain microorganisms could be a factor
• Increased awareness leading to more people seeking treatment

The bigger picture: Allergic reactions can develop into anaphylactic shock, which may cause:

• Coughing
• Voice changes
• Tongue swelling
• Breathing problems
• Dizziness
• Collapse

What's next: The Department of Health and Social Care says it is:

• Working with the NHS and voluntary organisations to improve allergy treatment
• Meeting with the Natasha Allergy Research Foundation to discuss appointing an allergy lead

The bottom line: While experts investigate the causes behind rising allergy admissions, Anaphylaxis UK advises anyone experiencing a severe reaction to:

• Stay still if possible
• Sit up for breathing difficulties, or lay flat with elevated legs
• Use an adrenaline auto-injector if available
• Call an ambulance, stating "anaphylaxis"
• Seek follow-up care from a doctor and allergist