allergic reactions, allergies, seizures

Allergic reactions

Most allergic reactions are mild in nature, but some can become severe and life threatening. Allergic reactions can be caused by insect stings, food, medications, or environmental elements. If your child shows signs of a mild allergic reaction, such as itchiness, skin irritation, watery eyes, stuffy nose, or minor hives and bumps, make note of the reaction and do your best to avoid contact with the substance.

Consult your doctor or emergency medical care if...

·	The child suffers swelling to the face or mouth

·	Has difficulty breathing or is wheezing

·	Has difficulty swallowing or talking

·	Becomes dizzy, disoriented, or loses consciousness

·	Suffers abdominal pain, nausea, or vomiting from the reaction

·	If mild symptoms persist for several days

·	If you are unable to determine what caused the allergic reaction

·	Your child was exposed to a food or substance that in the past has caused a severe allergic reaction

Severe allergies and your child’s school

Child care workers in the normal hustle and bustle of the day, and in dealing with dozens of kids at a time can sometimes make mistakes.. People are imperfect, and even the best of centers can have lapses. This, however, can be overcome with simple steps parents can take, so you can rest a little easier knowing your child is safe.

·	Be sure to personally speak with all the teachers of the school or center about your child’s allergy, not just the ones in your child’s class, as people often substitute in different rooms.

·	Remind teachers on a constant basis about your child’s allergy. Don’t assume that once is enough.

·	Remind teachers before a field trip to be sure to bring the epipen if one is needed.

·	Make a large poster to give to your child’s school for alerting people of your child’s allergy, so that it can be posted where everyone can see.

·	For food allergies, specifically talk with the cook as well, as they are often more likely to remember than the childcare givers.

·	Teach your child about his or her allergy as soon as they can talk, so that they can watch out for themselves as well.

Seizures

Many children will have seizures during their childhood. Although seizures can be a frightening experience for a child and their parents, they usually only last a few minutes, stop on their own, and are almost never life threatening.

Handling a seizure

·	Gently place the child on the floor or ground.

·	Remove any nearby objects

·	Do not try to restrain the child, and do not try to put anything into the child’s mouth. This will cause more harm, and isn’t necessary

·	Roll the child onto his or her side after the seizure in case they vomit, or try to keep the child on his or her side if they vomit during the seizure

·	Call your doctor and let them know about the seizure.

Seek emergency medical care if...

·	The child has never had a seizure before

·	Has a seizure that lasts for more than 5 minutes

·	Is having repeated seizures

·	Stops breathing or turns a bluish color on the lips, tongue, or face

·	Remains unconscious or unresponsive for more than a few minutes after a seizure

·	Falls or hits their head during a seizure

·	Has a heart condition

·	Seems ill or has any other symptom that concerns you