How a Child Might Describe a Reaction

Children have unique ways of describing their experiences and perceptions, and allergic reactions are no exception. Precious time can be lost when adults do not immediately recognize that a reaction is happening or don’t understand what a child is telling them.

Signs of an allergic reaction in children, especially very young ones, can include:

• Putting their hands in their mouths
• Pulling or scratching at their tongues
• Slurring their words
• Their voices may change (e.g., become hoarse or squeaky)

A child might use words like these to describe a reaction:

• "This food is too spicy."
• "My tongue [or mouth] is hot [or burning, tingling, itching]."
• "It feels like something’s poking my tongue."
• "It [my tongue] feels like there is hair on it."
• "My tongue feels full [or heavy or funny]."
• "There’s something stuck in my throat."
• "It feels like a bump is on the back of my tongue [throat]."
• "My lips feel tight."
• "It feels like there are bugs in there." (to describe itchy ears)
• “My eyes are burning [or itchy].”
• “My skin feels itchy.”
• “My stomach [or tummy] hurts.”
• “My chest is tight.”
• “Something is wrong” or “Something bad is happening.”

If you think your child is having an allergic reaction, seek help immediately. Learn more about treating allergic reactions.

Download a PDF resource with this information in English or Spanish.