What Should I Do If My Infant Has An Allergic Reaction?

It can be a scary thing for a parent when an infant has an allergic reaction, especially if it is a severe allergic reaction. Knowing what you should do if your infant has an allergic reaction is a reasonable preparation that any parent should be ready to make.

The first thing that you need to do is to know if your infant is having an allergic reaction. If the reaction is severe, your infant may swell in the face or lips, may have diarrhea, or may have trouble breathing. If the reaction is less severe, it is possible that your infant may just have a few hives, may be fussy without an explanation, or even develop just a small rash.

If your infant has a severe allergic reaction, you need to move quickly. It is usually best to call your local emergency service or 911 service. With a severe allergic reaction, especially a severe allergic reaction to food, it is possible that your infant’s airway could actually close up, cutting off his supply of oxygen. If this condition is not treated rapidly, it could result in long-term problems including brain damage or even death.

If your infant has an allergic reaction that is not this severe, you should take some time to first treat your infant. You might consider a medication, such as Benadryl, to stop any itching that the child may have due to hives or rash. Tylenol should help if the infant is having any pain. As always, be certain that you know the correct types of medicines and the correct dosages of those medicines to use with your infant. If you are not certain, you should speak with your health care provider.

Once your infant has had an allergic reaction, you should speak with your health care provider. Your health care provider can help you to determine what it is that your infant has had an allergic reaction to, although allergy testing or allergy medications are not usually given to infants.

Posted in Baby and Toddler

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What Should I Do If My Infant Has An Allergic Reaction?

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