Major Illness — Reference Guide

 

? Major Illness 

? Examples of Major Illnesses

(Click the links below for more info)


? Signs & Symptoms

  • Sudden chest pain or pressure

  • Weakness, numbness, or difficulty speaking

  • Seizure or loss of responsiveness

  • Difficulty breathing, wheezing, or gasping

  • Swelling of lips, tongue, or throat

  • Confusion, sweating, or collapse


? Treatment

  1. Call 999 Immediately – Give clear details of symptoms.

  2. Reassure & Monitor – Stay calm, keep casualty still, and monitor breathing and response.

  3. Airway & Breathing – Be ready to start CPR if they stop breathing.

  4. Position Safely

    • Chest pain → sit in comfortable upright position.

    • Breathing difficulty → upright position.

    • Stroke → lie on side if drowsy, keep airway clear.

  5. Give Medication if Available

    • GTN spray or aspirin for suspected heart attack (if prescribed and no allergy).

    • Inhaler for asthma.

    • Auto- injector for severe allergic reaction.

    • Glucose (sweets, sugary drink) if low blood sugar (Hypo) suspected.

    • High blood sugar (Hyper) cannot be treated by a first aider, seek urgent medical help.

  6. Do Not Leave Alone – Stay with the casualty until help arrives.


⚠️ Important Notes

  • Recognise life-threatening illnesses quickly – early action saves lives.

  • Always follow DRABC (Danger, Response, Airway, Breathing, Circulation).

  • Encourage the casualty to use their own prescribed medication if safe.

Related Topics

Further Information

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