Anaphylaxis is a severe and potentially life-threatening allergic reaction that can affect some kids. It’s important for parents to be on the look out for warning signs of anaphylaxis so they can get their kids the help they need in case of emergency.
In this Q&A, Dr. Wan-Yin Chan, medical director of allergy and immunology at CHOC, advises parents on the warning signs of anaphylaxis and how they differ from mild allergic reactions, treatment strategies and when to call the doctor.
What causes severe allergic reactions (anaphylaxis) in kids?
Anaphylaxis in kids can be triggered by various allergens, which are substances that the body’s immune system perceives as harmful. The most common causes of anaphylaxis in children are:
- Food allergies.
- Bee stings.
- Medications.
- Latex.
What is the difference between mild to moderate allergic reactions and severe (anaphylactic) allergic reactions?
Mild-to-moderate allergic reactions and severe (anaphylactic) allergic reactions differ in their intensity, symptoms and potential risks to a child’s health. Dr. Chan offers this breakdown of the differences:
Mild to moderate symptoms
- Hives, or itchy, raised spots on the skin.
- Flushing.
- Itching.
- Stuffy nose and/or sneezing.
- Watery or itchy eyes.
- Mild swelling of the lips, face or extremities.
- Nausea.
- Vomiting.
- Diarrhea.
Severe symptoms
- Severe swelling of the face, throat or tongue.
- Hoarse voice.
- Chest tightness and difficulty breathing.
- Shortness of breath.
- Wheezing.
- Dizziness.
- Loss of consciousness.
Mild to moderate allergic reactions and anaphylaxis can start quickly, usually within seconds to minutes after your child is exposed to something they are allergic to. But sometimes, the symptoms can take a couple of hours to show up.
Can my child develop allergies?
Yes, children and teens can develop allergies at any age. They can be triggered by various substances such as foods, pollen, dust mites, pet dander, bee stings, medications or latex. Factors like family history, environmental exposure and timing of allergen exposure can contribute to the development of allergies.
How can I know if my child is allergic to something?
Watch for mild to moderate signs of allergies as well as the signs of anaphylaxis mentioned above. If you spot any of these symptoms in your child after exposure to a specific substance or bee sting, seek help from your pediatrician.
Your pediatrician may refer you to see an allergist, who can conduct a thorough evaluation, take a medical history, perform allergy tests (such as skin prick tests or blood tests) and provide a proper diagnosis.
What does anaphylaxis in infants look like?
Babies can have the same symptoms of anaphylaxis mentioned above, but it can be difficult to spot because they can’t communicate how they are feeling.
Here’s how anaphylaxis symptoms might look in babies:
- In addition to hives, a baby may have red or pale skin.
- Wheezing or shallow breathing may sound like grunting noises in infants.
- Swelling of the face, throat or tongue may make their face look puffy or different than normal.
- Drooling.
- Infants may become fussier, more irritable or seem agitated and restless.
- In severe cases, babies may become drowsy, tired or unresponsive.
When should I go to the hospital for my child’s allergic reaction?
If you suspect that your child is experiencing mild to moderate signs of an allergic reaction, call your pediatrician or visit urgent care. If you suspect that your child is experiencing anaphylaxis, visit your nearest urgent care or emergency department.
Visit CHOC’s Where to go for care guide for more guidance on the best place to get care for your child based on their symptoms.
Antihistamines vs. EpiPens: Which is better for treating allergic reactions?
Antihistamines (like Claritin, Allegra or Zyrtec) can be used to treat milder allergic reactions. They work by blocking the effects of histamine, a chemical released during an allergic reaction. Antihistamines help with symptoms like itching, hives, or sneezing. Make sure to seek advice from your pediatrician to figure out the right treatment for specific allergies and to have the right medications and instructions.
For anaphylaxis, your child’s doctor will give them at least one dose of epinephrine, also called adrenaline, which can help constrict blood vessels to increase blood pressure, reduce wheezing, improve breathing and work to reduce hives and swelling. A second dose may be required if the first dose is not effective. Because a severe allergic reaction can last for hours, patients should go to the emergency room to be monitored for several hours after administration of epinephrine.
A commonly prescribed epinephrine injection (EpiPen or AuviQ) is given for food allergies or when there is a history of anaphylaxis. If your child is prescribed an EpiPen/AuviQ, your doctor will show you how to use it. If your child has a future anaphylactic reaction, you’ll want to administer it right away.
In the case that your child experiences a severe allergic reaction to food, medication, insect stings or latex, being prepared and seeking prompt medical attention can make all the difference in keeping your child safe. Don’t be afraid, but remain diligent about symptoms and how to help, says Dr. Chan.
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