By Henry 
As a new parent, the thought of your child having an allergic reaction can be scary. According to the American College of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology (ACAAI), about 40% of children in the U.S. suffer from allergies—whether it’s from food, pollen, pets, or dust. The good news is that with the right knowledge and tools, you can manage your child’s allergies and help them stay safe.
In this article, we’ll break down the most common types of allergies, how to spot symptoms, and the treatments that can help your child feel better. We’ll also give you practical advice on how to handle an allergic reaction when it happens.
Recognizing the Signs of an Allergic Reaction
Knowing what to look for is the first step in managing your child’s allergies. Allergic reactions can look different from one child to another, but here are some common signs:
- Skin Issues: Hives, rashes, or itching
- Breathing Problems: Coughing, sneezing, wheezing, or a stuffy nose
- Stomach Problems: Vomiting, diarrhea, or tummy aches
- Serious Reactions: Swelling in the lips, tongue, or throat, or trouble breathing (this could be anaphylaxis, which is a medical emergency)
If you notice any of these signs, it’s important to take action quickly. Don’t panic—there are steps you can take to help your child feel better.
What to Do During an Allergic Reaction
It’s easy to feel overwhelmed during an allergic reaction, but staying calm is key. Here’s a simple guide to follow:
1. Recognize the Symptoms
The first thing to do is to understand the symptoms. If your child has mild symptoms, like sneezing or a rash, you may be able to treat it with over-the-counter antihistamines (like Zyrtec or Claritin). These medications help relieve symptoms like itching and sneezing.
But if your child has severe symptoms, such as swelling of the lips or throat, trouble breathing, or feeling faint, they may be having a severe allergic reaction called anaphylaxis, which is a serious emergency.
2. Use Medication Right Away
If your child has been prescribed antihistamines (like Zyrtec or Benadryl), give them the medication as directed. This should help with mild allergic reactions like hives or itchy skin.
If your child has a severe allergy, like to peanuts, or has had an anaphylactic reaction before, you should use their epinephrine injector (EpiPen) immediately. Epinephrine helps quickly reduce swelling and breathing problems during anaphylaxis.
Example: If your child eats something with peanuts and starts to have trouble breathing, administer the EpiPen to inject epinephrine. Even if they start to feel better, take them to the emergency room right away. The effects of the epinephrine can wear off, so they need to be monitored by doctors.
3. Call 911 Right Away
After giving your child their epinephrine (if needed), call 911 immediately. Even if your child seems to improve, anaphylaxis can come back quickly, and they might need more treatment in the hospital. When you call 911, let the dispatcher know what happened, including your child’s age, the allergen they were exposed to, and what medication they’ve already had.
4. Stay Calm and Reassure Your Child
Your child might feel scared or confused, especially if they’re having trouble breathing. Speak to them calmly and let them know that help is on the way. The calmer you stay, the more your child will feel safe and secure during the situation.
How to Prepare for Allergies at Home
The best way to handle allergies is to prevent them from happening in the first place. Here’s how to get your home allergy-ready:
- Clean Regularly: Dust and pet dander are common allergens. Regular cleaning can help remove them. Consider using an air purifier to help clean the air.
- Food Safety: Always check food labels carefully if your child has food allergies. If your child is at school or daycare, make sure teachers and caregivers know what your child is allergic to and what to do in case of a reaction.
- Make an Allergy Plan: Work with your pediatrician to create an allergy action plan. This plan should include a list of your child’s allergens, symptoms to watch for, and instructions on how to handle a reaction.
When to Seek Medical Help
Even with your best efforts, sometimes you’ll need professional help. Here’s when you should see a doctor:
- Breathing Problems: If your child has trouble breathing or their throat starts to swell, get medical help immediately.
- Ongoing Symptoms: If your child’s allergies are affecting their daily life, or if they need to take medication often, talk to a pediatric allergist for a tailored treatment plan.
Managing Your Child’s Allergies with Confidence
Managing your child’s allergies doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With the right knowledge, preparation, and calm response, you can keep your child safe and healthy. Trust in yourself, stay informed, and remember that you have the tools and resources to handle any allergic reaction that comes your way.
By taking these steps, you’re not just managing your child’s allergies—you’re empowering them to thrive despite their challenges.