If your child is diagnosed with an infection, they may be prescribed penicillin. Penicillin is one of the most common antibiotics used to treat a variety of different infections. Unfortunately, it's also possible for your child to have an allergy to penicillin. If you are preparing to give your child this antibiotic for the first time, here's a look at what your pediatrician wants you to know about allergy symptoms.

When Would A Penicillin Allergy Show Up?

One of the first things that your pediatrician will want you to know is when you should be watching for signs of an allergy to penicillin. In most situations, symptoms of a penicillin allergy will appear fairly quickly, within the first hour or two after taking the medication. 

The one thing that parents should understand, though, is that penicillin allergies can develop after any exposure to the medication, not just the first time. That's why it's so important to know what to look for.

What Are The Signs Of A Penicillin Allergy?

Hives are one of the mild indicators of an allergy to penicillin. Hives are a red, itchy rash that's marked by a bumpy, raised texture. Additionally, another common symptom includes swelling, which typically affects the face or the tongue.

When it comes to severe reactions to penicillin, your child may experience anaphylaxis, which is swelling in the throat and respiratory problems. Penicillin allergies can also include abdominal cramping and diarrhea, as well as lightheadedness and fainting.

How Do You Know if Your Child Has A Penicillin Allergy?

If your child has experienced any of the allergy symptoms, but those symptoms were mild, you may wonder if your child really does have a penicillin allergy. If you are allergic to penicillin, but your child has never taken it, you can talk with your child's pediatrician about testing for a penicillin allergy.

The simplest test for a penicillin allergy is through skin exposure. Your child will be exposed to penicillin through skin pricks first. If there is no visible reaction, the doctor will inject a small amount of penicillin under the skin to watch for a reaction. 

In addition to skin exposure testing, your child's pediatrician may recommend a challenge test. In this test, your child will actually receive a dose of penicillin, and they will then be observed in the pediatrician's office for a couple of hours to watch for symptoms. This is the safest way to conduct a challenge test because you have medical professionals immediately accessible if your child does have a reaction.