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| This picture was taken about 40 minutes after the antihistamine was administered and symptoms started to go away. |
We were having fun at the playground, going down the slides, riding on the swings, and chasing each other. Until hives started breaking out on our son’s skin. This time the hives covered both of his eyelids and one side of his neck.
I’m not certain as to what caused the breakout. I’m guessing that the handles, monkey bars and/or swings had dairy or peanut residue on them from other children’s dirty hands. Possibly he touched the playground with his hand, then touched his eyes and neck.
What am I supposed to do in this situation to keep him safe? Wipe down the entire playground with wipes? Offer to clean everyone’s hands? Just deal with it?
I ended up giving him an antihistamine, packing our stuff up and going home. I didn’t really see any other options. He was too uncomfortable to stay. Luckily he didn’t have a problem leaving, even though we had only been there for about 15 minutes. This type of thing has happened before and unfortunately he’s used to it.
I do have to watch how I handle the situation though. I have to remember that this is our son’s normal. He doesn’t feel sorry for himself for having to leave, or for being different. It needs to be one of my priorities that he continues to feel this way. If I put a sad face on and tell him how sorry I am, then it’s giving the message that he has something to be upset about. It teaches him to feel sorry for himself when he has a reaction. This is exactly what i don’t want.
What I do in a situation like this is get down to his level and give him my complete undivided attention and state the facts “You’re having a reaction to something here. Let’s wash your hands and face, take some Benadryl and find a safer place to go. We can try coming back another day.” I put a smile on my face, hold his had, start walking and immediately start talking about something else entirely as a distraction from leaving.
-Elizabeth
How do you keep your allergy child safe in public?
I use wipes and always carry my son's medicine, but reading your story is a wake up that maybe I need to be more complete and alert. I have avoided parties at the park, knowing that not only will there be all kinds of food to avoid while eating, but just as in your case the food will be carried over into the play areas. Now that this is summer parties will be a constant and we do go to the park. I will remember your story and be observant and kind. Thank you! If only I had more to add to your story. -Debra
You're very welcome Debra.