Allergic reactions in children are common. They happen when the immune system mistakes a normally harmless substance, a food, pollen, dust mites, pet fur, or an insect sting, as a threat and reacts to it. Most reactions are mild. But some can escalate into anaphylaxis, a severe, life-threatening reaction that needs immediate action. Knowing the difference, and what to do, is essential.
Mild to moderate allergic reactions
Many allergic reactions cause discomfort but aren’t dangerous. Common signs include:
- Hives or welts, red, itchy, raised areas of skin that look like a cluster of mosquito bites
- A tingling sensation around the mouth or face
- Stomach pains, vomiting, or diarrhoea
- Swelling to the face
If your child has a mild reaction, contact your GP for advice. They may recommend antihistamines or refer you to an allergy specialist. Antihistamines (in liquid or tablet form) can reduce itching, swelling, and hives, and if your child has a known allergy, it’s wise to always carry them. Ask your pharmacist about non-drowsy options for daytime use. Keep a close eye on your child, because a mild reaction can sometimes progress.
Anaphylaxis, the signs that mean act now
Anaphylaxis is a rapidly progressing, life-threatening allergic reaction affecting multiple body systems. Call for emergency help immediately if you see any of these:
- A rash anywhere on the body
- Swelling of the mouth, tongue, lips, eyes, neck, or elsewhere
- Drooling, because swelling in the airway affects their ability to swallow
- Noisy breathing, wheezing or grunting
- Shortness of breath or faster breathing
- Dizziness or unconsciousness
- Becoming pale and floppy
Common triggers in children include peanuts, tree nuts, milk, eggs, shellfish and fish, insect stings (bee or wasp), some medications, and latex.
What to do during an anaphylactic reaction
If your child has an Anaphylaxis Action Plan from your GP or allergist, follow it. Otherwise:
- Position them. If they’re breathing without difficulty, have them lie down flat, this helps maintain blood pressure. If breathing is difficult, let them sit up, but keep them still. Movement can make anaphylaxis worse by spreading the allergen faster through the body.
- Give adrenaline. Use the prescribed adrenaline autoinjector (such as an EpiPen) immediately. Inject it into the outer thigh, through clothing if necessary.
- Call Triple Zero (000) and tell them it’s an anaphylactic reaction.
- Keep your child calm and still. Don’t let them stand or walk.
- A second dose may be needed if there’s no improvement, or symptoms return, given 5 minutes after the first, into the outer thigh again.
If no autoinjector is available, call an ambulance immediately, lay your child down (or sit them up if breathing is hard), keep them still, and wait for help.
How to use an adrenaline autoinjector
The simple rhyme we teach makes it easy to remember: “Blue to the sky, orange to the thigh.”
- Remove the blue safety cap
- Hold around the body of the device (never the ends)
- Press the orange end firmly into the outer thigh and hold for 5 seconds
Practise with a trainer device, and review your child’s action plan regularly with everyone who cares for them, family, babysitters, daycare staff.
The key things to remember
Mild reactions need monitoring and a chat with your GP. Anaphylaxis needs adrenaline and an ambulance, without delay. Know your child’s triggers, always carry their medication and autoinjector if prescribed, and keep their action plan up to date and accessible.
Being prepared turns a terrifying situation into one you can handle. Our Baby & Child First Aid course includes a full demonstration of how to use an adrenaline autoinjector and manage a reaction, taught by a frontline paramedic.
This article is for general information only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always follow the guidance of a qualified health professional. In an emergency, call Triple Zero (000) immediately.