Anaphylaxis in Children
Expert assessment, emergency planning and adrenaline auto-injector training for children with anaphylaxis risk across Belfast and Northern Ireland.
Anaphylaxis is a severe, life-threatening allergic reaction that requires immediate treatment with adrenaline. It can be triggered by foods (most commonly peanut, tree nuts, milk, egg, fish and shellfish), insect stings, drugs or latex. In children, food allergy is the most common cause.
Dr Mugilan Anandarajan is a Consultant Paediatrician with a special interest in allergy, eczema and respiratory conditions. He provides specialist anaphylaxis assessment, emergency planning and adrenaline auto-injector training for children at Kingsbridge Private Hospital and Ulster Independent Clinic in Belfast.
Symptoms to Look Out For
Sudden widespread hives, flushing, itching, swelling of the lips, tongue or throat
Difficulty breathing, wheezing, stridor (high-pitched breathing), hoarse voice — due to airway swelling
Rapid or weak pulse, drop in blood pressure, dizziness, collapse — due to circulatory shock
Sudden severe abdominal pain, vomiting, diarrhoea — often an early warning sign
Anxiety, confusion, loss of consciousness — due to reduced blood flow to the brain
Symptoms typically develop rapidly within minutes of exposure — immediate treatment with adrenaline is essential
When to Seek Specialist Assessment
- Your child has had a previous anaphylactic reaction
- Your child has been prescribed an adrenaline auto-injector (EpiPen or Jext) and you want a specialist review
- You want to identify the trigger for your child's anaphylactic reaction
- Your child has a severe food allergy and you want an emergency management plan
- You need training on how and when to use an adrenaline auto-injector
- Your child's school or nursery needs an allergy action plan and emergency guidance
Allergy Testing Methods
Detailed Allergy History
A thorough review of the reaction — timing, symptoms, foods eaten, medications taken — to identify the most likely trigger.
Skin Prick Testing
Tests for IgE-mediated allergy to suspected food or other triggers. Performed safely in a clinic setting with emergency equipment available.
Specific IgE Blood Testing
Measures IgE antibodies to suspected allergens. Component testing (e.g. Ara h 2 for peanut) helps predict severity of future reactions.
Management & Treatment Plan
Frequently Asked Questions
Living with the risk of anaphylaxis can be frightening for children and families. Dr Anandarajan will provide a comprehensive assessment, a clear emergency plan and the confidence to manage your child's allergy safely in everyday life.