Allergic Reactions & Anaphylaxis: What Every Parent Needs to Know
- info9407830
- Mar 19
- 3 min read
As parents and caregivers, one of the scariest things we can face is seeing our child have a severe allergic reaction. Whether it's a known allergy or something completely unexpected, recognising the signs early and knowing what to do can literally save a life.
First things first... What is an allergic reaction?
An allergic reaction happens when the body's immune system overreacts to something, like certain foods, insect stings, medications, or even latex.
These reactions can range from mild to life-threatening.
Mild to moderate allergic reactions might include:
Itchy skin, hives, or welts
Tingling of the face, lips, or eyes
Mild swelling of the face, lips, or eyes
Stomach pain, nausea, or vomiting
Sneezing, runny nose, or itchy, watery eyes
These symptoms are uncomfortable, but they’re not usually life-threatening.
So, what is anaphylaxis?
Anaphylaxis is a severe and life-threatening allergic reaction. It can affect breathing, circulation, and cause collapse if not treated quickly.
Symptoms can appear within minutes of exposure, but sometimes they take up to two hours.
To be considered anaphylactic, two or more symptoms affecting different parts of the body system need to be happening at the same time. Body systems can include skin, the respiratory system, or the cardiovascular system.
Signs of anaphylaxis include:
Anaphylaxis as any one of these signs:
(ASCIA Guidelines, 2024)
🚨Difficult or noisy breathing
🚨Swelling of tongue
🚨 Swelling or tightness in throat
🚨 Wheeze or persistent cough
🚨 Difficulty talking or hoarse voice
🚨 Persistent dizziness or collapse
🚨Pale and floppy (young children)
If your child has these symptoms, you must act immediately.
Common triggers for anaphylaxis:
Peanuts, tree nuts, eggs, milk, shellfish, wheat, soy
Bee or wasp stings
Certain medications (like antibiotics)
Latex (found in things like balloons, gloves, and medical supplies)
If your child has an adrenaline injector (EpiPen or Anapen):
Keep your in a comfortable position.
Give the adrenaline injector immediately.
Call Triple Zero (000) and say it's anaphylaxis.
Stay with your child and keep them calm.
Wait for help to arrive
Follow your child’s Allergy Action Plan for any specific instructions tailored to their needs.
If this is the first time and they don’t have an injector:
Call Triple Zero (000) immediately.
Keep your in a comfortable position.
Stay with them and keep them calm.
Wait for help to arrive
Remember!
If at any point your child stops breathing or becomes unconscious, follow the DRS ABC steps:
D – Danger: Check the area is safe.
R – Response: Are they responsive?
S – Send for help. Call Triple Zero (000).
A – Airway: Check and clear their airway.
B – Breathing: Look, listen, and feel.
C – CPR: Start CPR if they’re not breathing.
Staying prepared if your child has allergies:
Keep an up-to-date Anaphylaxis Action Plan from your doctor.
Always carry their adrenaline injector (and check expiry dates).
Make sure anyone caring for your child knows how to recognise anaphylaxis and use an injector.
Create awareness and understanding with your child that they are anaphylactic—help them learn about their allergies, what to avoid, and what they can do if they feel unwell.
Utilise The Sick Sense A-G Quick Check
If you’re not quite sure and something just doesn’t feel right, utilise you’re A-G Quick check tool.
Trust your own Sick Sense!
Written by
Ilana Haseltine Lawrence – RN, MN (Adv Prac Paeds), ACN Cert Immunisation, RTO (AHETI), TAE40122 - Cert IV in Training & Assessment.
Reviewed by
Dr Samual Heitner - Paediatrician, Paediatric Emergency Consultant, Founder - Telebaby, FRACP.
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