Penicillin is an antibiotic used to manage various forms of infection. It is sad to note that it can trigger a serious reaction among those with penicillin allergy.
Am I allergic to penicillin?
An individual might have penicillin allergy if he/she develops an itchy skin rash or irritated eyes after using penicillin. These symptoms might develop after the initial dose but not in all cases. Additionally, the drug might already be taken in the past. Remember that allergies can develop in an adult or child even if the drug has been used safely in the past.
The serious symptoms of penicillin allergy are rare but can include the following:
- Difficulty breathing or talking
- Wheezing
An individual might have penicillin allergy if he/she develops an itchy skin rash or irritated eyes after using penicillin. - Confusion
- Dizziness or blacking out
- Nausea and vomiting
- Hives
- Tingling, swelling or tightness in the lips, tongue or throat
The doctor can diagnose the allergy using a skin test. The doctor will place a small amount of the drug under the skin and monitor for a reaction. If the individual has antibodies in the blood, the skin will turn puffy and red.
Who are at risk?
Penicillin allergy is the most common form of drug allergy. Nevertheless, only a small percentage of individuals who are exposed to the drug end up with a reaction. In most instances, the reaction is brief and readily manageable. A life-threatening reaction or anaphylaxis is considered rare.
The condition often occurs among young adults and middle-aged individuals. An individual is more likely to develop the allergy if using the drug often or have an allergy to a different drug.
Management of penicillin allergy
The mild symptoms of penicillin allergy such as rashes can be treated using antihistamines such as diphenhydramine. As for severe reactions, the doctor treats them using corticosteroid pills or a shot.
As for anaphylaxis, it requires emergency treatment such as a shot of adrenaline and even life-support measures.