Minimising the risk of a severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis)

Food allergies can be very serious, sometimes even life-threatening (but thankfully fatalities due to food allergies are very rare, with around 10 deaths a year, but each one is terribly tragic).

It is important for individuals with food allergies, along with parents and caregivers, to know what to do, are prepared and able to recognise potential severe reactions (anaphylaxis), to help prevent them.

Here is a basic guide to help keep your child safe:

Get a clear diagnosis

• Find out exactly which foods your child is allergic to.
• Talk to experts about how to avoid these foods.
• Teach your child to recognise allergy symptoms and to tell an adult right away.

Know the signs of Anaphylaxis

• Learn what anaphylaxis looks like.
• Make sure your child knows how to use an adrenaline auto-injector (AAI).
• Be familiar with different AAI brands and how to use them (UK brands, Epi-Pen and Jext).

Use adrenaline first 

• If you think your child is having anaphylaxis, use the AAI immediately.
• Inject it into the thigh for quick results.
• It’s better to use the AAI even if you’re unsure, rather than not using it at all.

Keep two AAIs (EpiPens or Jext) on hand to 

• Your child should always have two in-date AAIs with them.
• Replace them before they expire.
• It’s better to use an expired AAI than to have no AAI in an emergency.

Have an Allergy Action Plan

• Create an Allergy Action Plan for your child.
• Share this plan with everyone who takes care of your child.
• Practice what to do in an emergency with all involved.

Manage asthma

• Keep asthma under control to avoid breathing problems during an allergic reaction.
• Follow your inhaler routine and see a doctor regularly for asthma check-ups.

Communicate with schools

• Make sure school staff understand the Allergy Action Plan.
• Provide AAIs for use at school and during field trips.
• Encourage the school to have extra AAI devices.

Talk to Restaurants

• Let restaurant staff know about your child’s allergies.
• If they don’t seem to understand, speak with the manager.
• Use translation cards with allergen information when travelling.

What to Do During Anaphylaxis

• Use the AAI at the first sign of a reaction or if you’re unsure.
• Inject the adrenaline into the upper thigh.
• Call emergency services (999) and explain it is ‘anaphylaxis.’
• If symptoms don’t improve in 5 minutes, give another dose of AAI (in the other leg)
• Have your child sit down; avoid exercise, bathing, or alcohol until fully recovered.
• Seek medical help even if your child feels better.

By following these steps and making sure everyone involved knows what to do, you can help keep your child safe from severe allergic reactions. Always get personalised advice from your GP/Allergist.

Allergy Centre of Excellence’s Professor Adam Fox, is one of the authors of a helpful leaflet co-designed with allergy charities and patient groups. The leaflet aims to empower and assist families, caregivers, grandparents, and anyone responsible for the care of individuals with food allergies. Access the leaflet