CHECK-UP:How can I ensure my son is safe when he is away from me? MARION KERRon anaphylaxis.
LAST SUMMER my son had a bad reaction to a wasp sting. His face was so swollen and he had such difficulty breathing that we had to bring him to A&E for treatment. As he is due to go to the Gaeltacht in a month, I'm starting to worry that it might happen again. Have you any advice on how to avoid a repeat episode?
The reaction your son experienced is known as anaphylaxis or anaphylactic shock. Anaphylaxis is a collection of symptoms that develop when histamine is released by the body in response to exposure to an allergic substance.
In addition to swelling around the face and neck, blood pressure can drop, there may be difficulty breathing and a severe wheeze may develop. In very extreme cases it can result in death.
These are all very serious symptoms and always require urgent medical attention. The first line of defence is to take precautions to avoid wasps. Advise him to never disturb a wasps' nest and to stay away from areas that attract insects, such as litter bins.
He should not walk barefoot out of doors and should avoid wearing bright colours such as yellow or orange, which seem to attract wasps. Get him to use an insect repellent for added protection. If possible, he should avoid eating ice-cream and other sweet foods outdoors.
We were given an Epipen by the hospital in case it happens again. I have shown him how to use it but worry that it will cause him harm should he use it when he's not going into shock.
An Epipen is a device designed to administer a measured dose of adrenaline to counteract the symptoms of anaphylaxis. It is relatively safe to use but must be used with caution in the elderly or in those with cardiac problems.
Should he give himself a dose of adrenaline that is not strictly necessary, he may feel a little unwell for a few minutes but this should pass and is preferable to waiting until symptoms become so severe that it's too late.
Before he travels bring him to your family doctor so that he can be advised as to what symptoms to look out for and how to use the adrenaline safely. This information is often best coming from a third party as kids often dismiss advice from parents as fussing.
Check the expiry date on the Epipen to ensure adequate protection should he need to use it. Provide the Irish college and Bean an Tí with details of his medical problem, additional adrenaline and instructions on how he should be treated in the event of an allergic reaction.