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What is anaphylaxis? What should I do if my child has an anaphylactic reaction? Anaphylaxis is a serious allergic reaction. It comes on quickly and can be fatal. This type of reaction is a medical emergency and immediate medical attention is important. For anyone experiencing anaphylaxis, epinephrine should be given right away followed by a call to 911 for further treatment and transfer to a hospital. Epinephrine The main medicine to treat anaphylaxis is epinephrine. This is a medicine given by an injection. The best place to inject it is in the muscles of the outer part of the thigh. If the symptoms do not improve very quickly, the injection should be given again in 5 to 30 minutes. Children who are old enough can be taught how to give themselves epinephrine if needed. The medicine comes in auto-injector syringes (EpiPen or Twinject) to make this easier. Epinephrine should be prescribed for anyone who has ever had an anaphylactic attack and for children at high risk for anaphylaxis. They are available in 2 different doses based on the weight of the child. You should always have at least 2 doses with you at all times. School-aged children also need one at school with instructions from their doctor about how and when to use it. Symptoms of anaphylaxis Anaphylaxis includes a wide range of symptoms that often happen quickly. The most severe symptoms restrict breathing and blood circulation. Combinations of symptoms may occur. The most common symptoms may affect the following: SKIN: itching, hives, redness, swelling NOSE: sneezing, stuffy nose, runny nose MOUTH: itching, swelling of lips or tongue THROAT: itching, tightness, difficulty swallowing, hoarseness CHEST: shortness of breath, cough, wheeze, chest pain, tightness HEART: weak pulse, passing out, shock GUT: vomiting, diarrhea, cramps NEUROLOGIC: dizziness, fainting, feeling that you are about to die Causes of anaphylaxisAnaphylaxis occurs when the immune system overreacts to normally harmless substances called allergens. The following are the most common allergens that can trigger anaphylaxis:
Published online: 3/07 Parents can find more information
on this topic in Caring for Your Baby and Young Child: Birth to Age 5.
To order a copy of this book visit the AAP
Bookstore. The information contained in this publication should not be used as a substitute for the medical care and advice of your pediatrician. There may be variations in treatment that your pediatrician may recommend based on individual facts and circumstances.
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Anaphylaxis