Allergic reactions in children

Allergic reactions happen when your immune system has become sensitive to something.  Common examples nuts, shellfish, certain fruits or vegetables and bee or wasp stings. Various chemicals and medications, especially antibiotics, can cause allergic reactions.

What are the symptoms of an allergic reaction?

Symptoms of an allergic reaction include:

• an itchy rash
• swelling of your face or lips
• itchy, watery eyes
• abdominal pain
• diarrhoea and vomiting

Will it happen again?

There is a small chance that your symptoms may get worse after discharge. If your symptoms do get worse call 111 or if they are very severe call 999.

Try to work out if your child has been exposed to anything new. For example new foods, washing powders, and cosmetics. This may help you avoid having another episode in the future.

It is not always clear what has caused an allergic reaction. Occasionally the rash is caused by other things such as a viral infection.

Your child may have been given medicine to help with the allergy. They should continue to take this as directed.

Try to to avoid your child coming into contact with whatever caused the allergic reaction. If it is a food make sure you check the ingredients list. It is not always obvious which allergens a food product contains.

Do I need follow up?

If the allergic reaction is related to a specific food your child will have been referred by a member of the Emergency Department team for follow up in the allergy clinic. If the allergic reaction was to a drug your GP needs to refer your child to the allergy clinic in Sheffield.

You should have been told about this at discharge and advice to your child’s GP should be included in their discharge letter. Please make an appointment with your child’s GP to arrange this follow up.

What to do if your child has another reaction

If your child has another allergic reaction you can call 111 or your child’s GP for advice.

When should I call for urgent help?

Call 999 if you think your child is having an allergic reaction and develops any of the following symptom:

• difficult/noisy breathing
• swelling of the tongue
• swelling/tightness in throat
• difficulty talking and/or hoarse voice
• wheeze or persistent cough
• loss of consciousness and/or collapse
• pale and floppy (young children)

Here are some websites which you may find useful. You can also speak to your GP for more advice:

Allergy UK

Anaphylaxis Campaign

Food Standards Agency (provides information on food allergies and food labelling)

Reviewed by Dr T Shaw in October 2023, next review in October 2026.

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