Is My Child Having an Allergic Reaction?

Allergic reactions can be scary experiences, especially when they occur in children. Patients of all ages can be allergic to a wide variety of things, and may experience an allergy early in life or suddenly become allergic to something they’ve been in contact with for many years. At Health Services of North Texas, we know how frightening it can be when a child has signs of an allergic reaction. Our board-certified physicians routinely treat allergies for patients throughout Denton and Collin counties, and are here to provide the personalized care and answers you need to help keep every member of your family healthy.

What are the signs of an allergic reaction?

An allergic reaction is the immune system’s way of fighting off a substance it finds to be threatening in some manner. Children can experience a reaction to a number of allergens, from foods and medications to pets, insects, dust, pollen, and other environmental factors. Allergic reactions to food or other substances can be mild or severe, may progress quickly, and can even be life-threatening. Regardless of the severity of an allergic response, it’s extremely important to seek prompt medical treatment or urgent care for a child when one or more of the following signs or symptoms occur:

• Hives or a rash
• Red, watering, or itchy eyes
• Sneezing, a runny nose, or nasal congestion
• Trouble swallowing
• Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea
• Abdominal pain or cramping
• Wheezing, shortness of breath, or other breathing difficulties
• Swelling of the tongue, lips, face, or any other area
• Dizziness, confusion, or becoming unresponsive

How are allergic reactions treated?

Our physicians at Health Services of North Texas may recommend treating minor allergic reactions with medications, like antihistamines, topical ointments, or decongestants. Severe allergic reactions increase the risk of anaphylaxis, which is a serious condition that could be life-threatening without immediate care. Patients who have been diagnosed with severe allergies to foods (such as peanuts or tree nuts), bees, or other factors may be prescribed an epinephrine auto-injector, which works quickly to deliver a dose of adrenaline throughout the body to help minimize the symptoms of anaphylaxis. If having an epinephrine auto-injector on hand is recommended for your child, our doctors will train you in its use and discuss further details of this type of treatment.

When to seek urgent care for an allergic reaction

Any time your child is having signs of an allergic reaction, it’s important to seek medical care right away. We offer pediatric urgent care for new and existing patients during normal business hours. In some cases, such as with a severe allergic reaction, it's best to first call 911 for help, especially if your child is having trouble swallowing, breathing, or other concerning symptoms. If your child experiences an allergic reaction in the evenings or weekends, please seek urgent care at an afterhours facility or the closest emergency room. Once an allergy has been diagnosed, our doctors will help you develop an emergency care plan to follow in the event an allergic reaction occurs.

Get trusted pediatric urgent care when you need it most

If your child is having signs of an allergic reaction to food, medications, insects, or any other factors, please seek pediatric urgent care right away. Many allergies can carry significant health consequences without prompt, professional care. Our board-certified physicians at Health Services of North Texas offer their years of experience in diagnosing and managing all types of allergies for patients in every stage of life, including the youngest members of your family. With practices located throughout Denton, Wylie, and Plano, TX, getting the care you and your loved ones need to live happy and healthy has never been more convenient. To schedule an appointment for your child, please contact us today!