How to Recognise and Respond to Allergic Reactions in Babies

Allergic reactions in babies can happen quickly, often within minutes of exposure to an allergen. It’s essential for parents and caregivers to know the signs of mild and severe reactions, including anaphylaxis, and to act swiftly. This guide covers everything you need to know, from recognizing symptoms to administering first aid and staying prepared for emergencies.

Allergic reactions usually occur quickly, within minutes to two hours after exposure to an allergen, according to the Allergy and Anaphylaxis Australia. Parents and caregivers must be equipped with the knowledge to identify mild and severe reactions and respond appropriately. Here’s what you need to know about recognising allergic reactions in babies and taking immediate action if needed.

Recognising the Signs of an Allergic Reaction

Mild to Moderate Allergic Reactions

Signs of a mild to moderate allergic reaction in babies include:

Skin Reactions: Hives, welts, or redness on the skin.
Swelling: Particularly around the lips, eyes, or face.
Gastrointestinal Symptoms: Vomiting or diarrhoea. (Please note these can be signs of anaphylaxis in someone with a severe insect allergy).
Behavioural Changes: Increased irritability or fussiness.

Severe Allergic Reactions (Anaphylaxis)

Anaphylaxis is a life-threatening emergency requiring immediate medical attention. Any ONE of these signs means someone is having a severe allergic reaction. Symptoms include:

Breathing Difficulties: Persistent coughing, noisy breathing, or a hoarse voice.
Significant Swelling: Swelling of the tongue and/or swelling/tightness in the throat.
Loss of Consciousness: The baby may become floppy or unresponsive.
Pale or Limp Appearance: Young children may become pale and floppy.

It’s important to note that minor redness around the mouth is often due to irritation and isn’t typically a sign of an allergic reaction to food. However, any signs of distress should be taken seriously.

What to Do if You Think Your Baby is Having an Allergic Reaction

For Mild to Moderate Reactions

Stop Feeding: If you suspect the reaction is food-related, stop feeding your baby immediately.
Monitor Closely: Monitor your baby to ensure the symptoms don’t worsen.
Seek Medical Advice: Contact your doctor for guidance, even if symptoms seem to subside, to discuss the next steps – including using non-drowsy antihistamines for children under one year of age (sedating antihistamines should not be given).

For Severe Reactions (Anaphylaxis)

Position Your Baby Safely: Lie your child flat, or hold them flat in your arms, not upright. Do not allow your child to stand or walk.

Administer Adrenaline injector (EpiPen or Anapen) if available: Follow the action plan.

Call Emergency Services: Dial 000 immediately and state that your child is experiencing anaphylaxis.

Another adrenaline injector may be given after 5 minutes: If no response from the first adrenaline injector administer a second adrenaline injector.

START CPR AT ANY TIME IF YOUR CHILD BECOMES UNRESPONSIVE AND NOT BREATHING NORMALLY.

Tips for Being Prepared

Know the Symptoms: Familiarise yourself with the signs of both mild and severe allergic reactions.
Keep an Action Plan: If your baby has been diagnosed with allergies, follow an Anaphylaxis Action Plan provided by your doctor or nurse.
Carry Emergency Medications: Always have an adrenaline injector if prescribed, and know how to use it.
Educate Caregivers: Ensure anyone caring for your baby understands how to recognise and respond to an allergic reaction.

Recognising the signs and acting quickly can save your baby’s life in the event of an allergic reaction. For more information on preventing and managing allergies in babies, visit Prevent Allergies; this is a fantastic resource for tips and advice on safely introducing common allergy-causing foods, spotting and responding to reactions, and more.

References

Prevent Allergies – How to recognise an allergic reaction