Child safety: Focus on anaphylactic shock

Dr Anchen Laubscher, Netcare’s Group Medical Director said that children are always curious and it is important that a close eye is kept on them at all times to ensure they are safe.

On 27 June, the focus was on choking. Today, Dr Laubscher discussed allergies arising from exposure to all kinds of substances, including certain foods (such as shellfish and peanuts), medicines, house dust mites, pollens, mould spores, animal danders, insect spore, latex rubber, insect bites and stings, and many others.

“Peanuts, penicillin and bee stings are among the best-known allergens and in some individuals can cause a dramatic reaction such as severe skin inflammation, vomiting and stomach cramps. For some adults and children with an allergy to these substances, they can even be dangerous.

“The severity of an allergic reaction can vary widely. Generally they are mild and may involve a slightly runny nose and hardly be noticed. Occasionally a patient may have a severe reaction, however, and this can even be life-threatening in some children.

“A severe reaction is known as anaphylaxis. A person who is suffering from anaphylaxis may develop shortness of breath, wheezing, a swelling of lips or joints and/ or an itchy rash all over the body. Although it is rare, parents should watch out for anaphylaxis, as it can be dangerous, even life-threatening, and parents should seek urgent medical attention should they be concerned that their child is suffering anaphylaxis,” noted Dr Laubscher.

“Most reactions to bites and stings are also mild, causing stinging or itching that goes away within hours or even minutes, but a few individuals develop severe reactions to certain insect venoms and they should get to a doctor or hospital as soon as possible if they show signs of doing so. Some people – an estimated three percent of the population – are more susceptible to animal venoms than others. Children and the elderly can be particularly sensitive and at risk.”

What constitutes a severe allergic reaction, or anaphylaxis? Dr Laubscher said that the following may be signs:

• Swelling at the throat or mouth that may constrict breathing

• Difficulty breathing or swallowing, and choking or wheezing

• Pain in the abdomen and/ or chest

• Nausea and vomiting

• Feeling faint

• A severe headache

• General or localised skin changes such as a rash or itching

“Children who are allergic to bee or wasp stings, nuts or who have other serious allergies should be kept away from these things. They should also wear a medical bracelet and carry an adrenalin injection with them at all times, as per the advice of a medical doctor. Antihistamine pills should also be kept at hand.”