The presenting symptoms and signs of severe anaphylaxis and life-threatening asthma can be the same. If the patient has asthma-like features alone, the BTS/SIGN asthma guidelines should be followed. The incidence of anaphylaxis is increasing. Early recognition of life-threatening airway, breathing or circulation problems and treatment with IM adrenaline is essential. All patients with confirmed anaphylaxis or suspected anaphylaxis should be referred to an allergy clinic.