Anaphylactic Reaction in Children: Care Instructions

Overview

A bad allergic reaction affects your child's whole body. Doctors call this an anaphylactic reaction. Your child's immune system may have reacted to food or medicine. Or maybe your child had an insect bite or sting. This kind of reaction can take place the first time your child comes into contact with a substance. Or it may take many times before a substance causes a problem.

You need to get help for your child right away if there is a reaction like this again.

Follow-up care is a key part of your child's treatment and safety. Be sure to make and go to all appointments, and call your doctor if your child is having problems. It's also a good idea to know your child's test results and keep a list of the medicines your child takes.

How can you care for your child at home?

• If your doctor has prescribed medicine, such as an antihistamine, give it to your child exactly as directed. Call your doctor if you think your child is having a problem with any medicines.
• Learn all you can about your child's allergies. Your child may be able to avoid a bad response when you do or don't do certain things. For instance, you can check food or drug labels for contents that might cause problems.
• Your doctor may prescribe an epinephrine medicine, such as an epinephrine shot or nasal spray, to carry in case your child has a severe reaction. Learn how to give your child the medicine. Keep it with your child at all times. Make sure it has not expired. If your child is old enough, teach your child how to give themself the medicine.
• Have your child wear medical alert jewelry that lists any allergies. You can buy this at most drugstores.
• Teach people, such as teachers, babysitters, coaches, and other caregivers, about your child's allergies. Tell them what your child needs to avoid. Teach them what to do if your child has a reaction.
• Before you give your child any medicine, tell your doctor if your child has had a bad response to any medicines in the past.

When should you call for help?

Watch closely for changes in your child's health, and be sure to contact your doctor if:

• Your child has new or worse symptoms.
• Your child's symptoms are interfering with their daily activities, sleep, or school.
• You have questions about medicines or allergy testing for your child.
• Your child does not get better as expected.