HIVES

 

Symptoms | When to call | Homecare Advice

 

WHEN TO CALL YOUR DOCTOR FOR HIVES

Call 911 Now (your child may need an ambulance)(for symptoms of anaphylaxis)If

  • Difficulty breathing or wheezing
  • Hoarseness or cough with rapid onset
  • Difficulty swallowing or slurred speech with rapid onset
  • Severe allergic reaction in the past to similar substance

Call Your Doctor Now (night or day) If

  • Your child looks or acts very sick.
  • Hives began after a bee sting, unusual food or medicine and no previous reactions

Call Your Doctor Within 24 Hours (between 9am and 4pm) If

  • You think your child needs to be seen.
  • Severe hives (eyes swollen shut, very itchy, etc.) not improved after 2nd dose of Benadryl
  • Fever, abdominal pain or joint swelling is present

Call Your Doctor During Weekday Office Hours If

  • You have other questions or concerns.
  • Hives interfere with school or normal activities after taking Benadryl every 6 hours for more than 24 hours
  • Unexplained hives have occurred 3 or more times

Parent Care at Home If

  • Hives with no complications and you don't think your child needs to be seen

Disclaimer: This information is not intended be a substitute for professional medical advice. It is provided for educational purposes only. You assume full responsibility for how you choose to use this information.

Pediatric SelfCareNavigator. Copyright © 2000-2004 Barton Schmitt, M.D. FAAP

Reviewed 8/2004

Revised 7/2002

See Other Topics:

View Anatomic Index of Topics