Allergic Reaction to Antibiotics

Having an allergic reaction to antibiotics is becoming quite common, as the use of antibiotics to treat various infections is becoming quite common. This article is an attempt to understand allergic reaction to antibiotics and ways to treat them.

Antibiotics are used for curing, preventing and managing infections caused by various bacteria, causing diseases. Consuming antibiotics for almost all health problems has become a normal way to handle infections and diseases. The word antibiotic is derived from two Greek words; anti and bios meaning against and life respectively.

Antibiotic drugs are derived wholly or partially from strains of bacteria or molds. When bacteria invades the body, causing disruptions to its functioning, and the immune system fails to fight it off, powerful antibiotics are prescribed to aid the immune system. They may kill bacteria or inhibit its growth. A note to bear in mind is that antibiotics can only reduce infection caused by bacteria, and not by viruses that cause cold and flu. Used appropriately, antibiotics can save life, but can cause complications if used indiscriminately. But there are times, when our body produces an allergic reaction to antibiotics, even when used cautiously.

Allergic Reaction to Antibiotics Symptoms

Allergic reaction to antibiotics largely depends upon the type and quantity of antibiotics taken. In most cases symptoms of antibiotic allergy starts within 24 hours. How long does an allergic reaction to antibiotics last is often the first question that comes to mind when one starts to develop the allergies. It usually lasts for a couple of hours after taking precautionary measures. Rash either in a simple form or as hives begin to appear around the mouth, face, neck, arms and other parts of the body. Redness, swelling, itching and mild fluid eruptions can all occur on different levels of severity. The rash may feel tender and painful when touched.

Difficulty in breathing followed with a choking bout of coughing and wheezing may also be a symptom of an allergic reaction to antibiotics. Trouble in swallowing food can also occur in some cases. Few cases of nausea and vomiting have also been reported. Anaphylactic shock is a very serious allergic reaction that needs immediate medical attention. It could prove to be fatal, if one is not stabilized and given appropriate medical care. Allergic reaction to antibiotics in children are also similar to the ones mentioned above, and they too like adults can develop bouts of diarrhea and abdominal discomfort. Amoxicillin and ampicillin are two very common antibiotics prescribed for young children, and are also common in causing allergic reaction to antibiotics in babies as well. Parents must restrain from giving the children and babies antibiotics without prescription, and must inform the doctor of all antibiotic allergies. Other antibiotics that can cause an allergy include penicillin, tetracycline, chloramphenicol, sulphonamides (sulfa drugs), vancomycin, nitrofurantoin, ciprofloxacin, etc. Read more on allergic reaction to amoxicillin and amoxicillin rash treatment.

Allergic Reaction to Antibiotics Treatment

The foremost step towards treatment for an antibiotic allergy is to discontinue the antibiotic and seek immediate medical care. Your treatment duration and course will depend upon the severity of the allergy symptoms. Simple rashes are treated with antihistamines and/or corticosteroids combined with soothing emollient to control the itching and reduce inflammation and redness. To control coughing, wheezing and breathlessness one can be prescribed inhalers. Anaphylactic shock is generally treated with injectable epinephrine.

Allergic reaction to antibiotics must not be ignored. Consult a physician if you notice a reaction, and have your medication changed, if following the course is important to your health.