5 Ways to Prepare for an Allergy Emergency

Quick action will help if your child has a serious allergic reaction (anaphylaxis). It's a good idea to occasionally review the instructions your doctor gave you about treating allergic reactions and run through the steps you would take in an emergency.

Here are 5 ways to be ready for a serious allergic reaction:

1. Keep Epinephrine Close at All Times

If your doctor prescribed epinephrine for emergencies, make sure two doses are always with your childor with an adult who is caring for your child in case one doesn't work or you need a second dose. Talk with the school staff about where they store epinephrine and how your child can get it quickly, if needed.

2. Know the Signs of a Reaction

Review the allergy action plan your doctor gave you and know the signs of an anaphylactic reaction — like trouble breathing, rash, swelling, repeated vomiting, loss of consciousness, and wheezing — and be ready to act quickly. Use the epinephrine if your child has one severe symptom, like trouble breathing, or two or more mild-to-severe symptoms, such as hives plus vomiting. Follow the instructions the doctor gave you. Teach your child and those who care for your child to do the same.

3. Learn How the Device Works

Practice how to use the epinephrine often. Are there caps to remove or twist? Is it an injector or a nasal spray? Which end delivers the medicine? Where on the body do you give it? How do you hold it? Ask for a demonstration at your doctor's office. Visit the manufacturer's website to get detailed instructions. Some manufacturers also may supply a trainer that has no epinephrine in it, so you can practice all the steps safely. As kids gets older, make sure they practice too.

4. Act Fast

If your child has a serious reaction, use the epinephrine right away. Have someone call 911 while you give the medicine. If no one else is with you and your child, give the epinephrine first and then call 911 to take your child to the nearest emergency room (ER). Take the used device to the hospital with you. During an anaphylactic reaction, your child may have a second wave of symptoms and may need a second dose of epinephrine. Remember: antihistamines do not treat life-threatening symptoms and are not a replacement for epinephrine.

5. Store the Devices Properly

Store the epinephrine according to the manufacturer's directions. Don't leave the devices in the car or other place where they might get too hot or too cold — temperature can affect how well epinephrine works. Always know when the devices expire and get new ones before they do.