Aspirin was the first NSAID that was discovered back in the 1800s that was isolated from the bark of the willow tree. When it comes to non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), they include a wide range of medications that are closely linked to aspirin. Today, several chemically-produced NSAIDs are utilized to control the conditions that involve pain, inflammation and fever.
Types of allergic reactions NSAIDs
Various reactions have been documented due to aspirin allergy that ranges from mild to life-threatening. The typical reactions of aspirin allergy include the following:
- Respiratory symptoms such as asthma and rhinitis
- Skin symptoms such as swelling and hives
- Severe allergic reaction and anaphylaxis
Respiratory symptoms such as asthma and rhinitis.
Always bear in mind that these allergic responses are not the same with other detrimental effects such as bleeding, bruising or stomach upset that are linked with NSAIDs but not considered allergic in nature.
Is aspirin allergy common?
An allergy to NSAIDs can affect some individuals. Among individuals who have asthma, some might have aggravated symptoms of asthma if NSAIDs are used. If an individual with asthma is also diagnosed with chronic sinusitis or nasal polyps, the risk for aspirin allergy increases.
Among individuals who have chronic hives and/or swelling, NSAIDs can worsen skin reactions. The medication is also known to trigger anaphylaxis, hypersensitive pneumonitis, aseptic meningitis as well as other reactions but the risk is still uncertain.
Testing for NSAID allergy
Unlike with allergic reactions to pollen, certain foods and animal dander where there are allergic antibodies (IgE) against the trigger, reactions to aspirin and other NSAIDs generally do not occur due to IgE.
Understandably, allergy testing is not beneficial. In some circumstances, an oral challenge might be carried out under the supervision of an allergist to assess for sensitivity or tolerance to a specific NSAID.
Treatment for aspirin allergy
Avoidance of all NSAIDs is the typical treatment for aspirin allergy. It is vital to be well aware of various medications that include aspirin or other related NSAIDs. Aside from avoidance, it is recommended that those who are allergic to NSAID must wear a medical alert bracelet to serve as a notification to emergency personnel regarding the condition in case they are unable to communicate.
In some circumstances, such as certain medical conditions, an NSAID is the required therapy. For these individuals, a desensitization procedure is a possible treatment and must only be carried out by an allergist. The desensitization to the medications might be effective for those who have NSAID-trigger respiratory allergy or severe allergic reaction, but not effective for NSAID-trigger skin allergy.
Drugs to avoid by those with aspirin allergy
The commonly used NSAIDs must be avoided by sensitive individuals. It is best to consult a doctor before using any new prescription or over-the-counter medications.