Safety Situations For Children:

What Do I Do?

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Allergic Reactions Safety Information

Allergic Reactions can be triggered by medications, foods, insect stings, pollen or other substances. Although most allergic reactions are not serious, severe reactions can be life threatening and require immediate medical attention. 

Signs and Symptoms

MILD:

• itchiness
• skin redness
• slight swelling
• stuffy, runny nose
• sneezing
• watery eyes
• red bumps (hives) anywhere on the body

SEVERE:

• swelling of the mouth or tongue
• difficulty swallowing or speaking
• wheezing or difficulty breathing
• abdominal (belly) pain, nausea, vomiting or diarrhea
• dizziness or fainting

WHAT TO DO:

• Call the doctor if the child has an allergic reaction that is more than mild and concerns you.
• If the symptoms are mild, give an oral antihistamine, such as diphenhydramine.
• If the symptoms are severe and you have injectable epinephrine (EpiPen), immediately use it as directed and call for emergency medical help. 

THINK PREVENTION:

Have kids avoid substances that are known to trigger an allergic reaction. Keep an oral antihistamine available. If the child has a severe allergy, be sure doctor prescribed injectable epinephrine is kept nearby at all times, and that you, the child (if old enough), and anyone who cares for the child know how to use it.