Allergic Reactions

Allergic reactions in children are becoming more common, with over 25% of kids experiencing at least one type of allergy. While reactions can vary from mild to severe, acting quickly is key to helping kids feel better fast. Here, we’ll go over common causes, symptoms to watch for, and how we can help at Just 4 Kids Urgent Care.

Common Causes of Allergic Reactions in Children

Allergies are common in kids and can develop early in life. Here are some common allergy triggers to be aware of:

Food allergies: According to the CDC, 5.8% of children experience food allergies. Some of the most common culprits include nuts, dairy, shellfish, and eggs. Reactions can vary, so keep an eye out for any symptoms if your child tries a new food.
Environmental triggers: Almost 19% of kids in the U.S. have seasonal allergies triggered by pollen, while others may react to dust or pet dander. This reality can be incredibly frustrating, as these triggers are often all around us!
Insect stings/bites: Some children may have allergic reactions to bee or wasp stings and other insect bites. While it’s less common, these reactions can sometimes be severe, so it’s helpful to know the signs.
Medications: Some kids may experience reactions to medications, including early vaccines or medicines with penicillin. It’s important to talk to your doctor about any family history of medication allergies.

Symptoms of Allergic Reactions

An allergic reaction can be mild or severe, depending on what your child is allergic to and how their body responds. Some reactions are minor and may go away with basic treatment, while others can escalate quickly. Recognizing the early signs is key, even if the symptoms seem mild at first.

Mild allergic reaction symptoms: For mild allergic reactions, your child might have an itchy rash, sneeze more, or experience stuffy noses and itchy eyes. These symptoms often occur with environmental allergies, and antihistamines can help alleviate them.
Severe allergic reaction symptoms: If your child shows signs like swelling, wheezing, chest tightness or trouble breathing, severe stomach pains, vomiting, hives, or anaphylaxis, they need immediate medical attention. Waiting to act can be extremely dangerous.

When to Seek Urgent Care

If you notice your child having severe allergy symptoms, don’t wait. Seek urgent care right away, especially if they have trouble breathing or their body swells up. Allergic reactions can quickly take an awful turn, and fast responses can save a life. We recommend keeping our urgent care number handy, perhaps even saved in your phone, in case you need it.

Treatment Options at Just 4 Kids Urgent Care

At Just 4 Kids Urgent Care, we are here to help with all types of allergic reactions, from mild to severe. For mild reactions, we can treat your child with antihistamines, which can relieve rashes, itchy eyes, and other common symptoms. These medications are available as pills or injections for quicker relief.

For more severe reactions, we use epinephrine (adrenaline) to help relax your child’s airways and prevent things like anaphylaxis. This medication is given through an Epi-Pen, which we provide to parents so they can use it at home if needed.

We want to ensure your child feels as comfortable as possible during treatment. Our team uses fun distraction techniques, toys, and a kid-friendly environment to ease any anxiety while your child gets the care they need.

How to Prevent Severe Allergic Reactions

Knowing what your child is allergic to is the best way to prevent severe reactions. Allergy testing can help identify food allergies, and once you know what to avoid, you can work to prevent your child from coming into contact with those allergens.

While avoiding environmental allergens like pollen or dust is not always possible, having the proper medication on hand can make all the difference. We suggest keeping antihistamines ready for mild reactions and always having an Epi-Pen nearby if your child has a more severe allergy.

Visit Just 4 Kids Urgent Care

If your child has a severe allergic reaction, contact Just 4 Kids Urgent Care right away. Our clinics in Chubbuck and Idaho Falls are open every day until 10 pm, and our Rexburg clinic is open until 8 pm. If your child experiences a bad allergic reaction after hours, please call 911 immediately. For more information or to speak with us about your concerns, call us at one of the following numbers: Idaho Falls: (208) 656-1500 Chubbuck: (208) 992-5109 Rexburg: (208) 747-0339 We’re here to help keep your little one safe and healthy!

Allergic Reactions

Common Causes of Allergic Reactions in Children

Symptoms of Allergic Reactions

When to Seek Urgent Care

Treatment Options at Just 4 Kids Urgent Care

How to Prevent Severe Allergic Reactions

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