How do I know if my child is having an allergic reaction to a medication?
Allergic reactions to medications are relatively common and occur more often in people who have a family history of allergies to a specific medication. Most allergies to medications are mild and produce skin symptoms only, usually in the form of hives that may start locally but often spread to cover most of the body. You can give oral diphenhydramine (Benadryl) to relieve itching in children over 12 months of age. Anaphylaxis is a sudden and severe allergic reaction that occurs within minutes of exposure. Immediate medical attention is needed for this condition. Without treatment, anaphylaxis can get worse very quickly and even lead to death. Symptoms of a Severe Reaction (Anaphylaxis) include: swelling of the face, eyes, or tongue, wheezing or cough, high-pitched breathing sounds (stridor), difficulty breathing or swallowing, abdominal pain, vomiting, or diarrhea. If your child is having a severe allergic reaction – always call 911. Do not wait to see if the reaction is getting worse.
