Drug allergies occur due to an abnormal reaction of the immune system to a drug. This condition causes symptoms, but also hinders treatment. This is why if you have allergies to certain types of drugs, it is important to know how to treat and prevent them. Allergic reactions should not be allowed. If it’s too late to be addressed or not treated properly, allergy symptoms that were mild before can become severe. Some people are even at risk of experiencing anaphylaxis, which is a severe allergic reaction that can be dangerous. Here are some ways to deal with drug allergies:
Stop using the drug
If you feel allergy symptoms such as shortness of breath and itching shortly after taking the drug, stop using it immediately. Also, don’t force yourself to take the next dose. Allergic reactions usually appear within minutes to hours of using the drug. Keep a record of what medications you take and when your allergy symptoms started. After that, go to the doctor or pharmacist to consult and find out which drug triggers the reaction. Ask for alternative drugs that are safer for you. Keep a record of your medications and alternatives. In this way, you can deal with drug allergies that may recur at any time. This record will also help medical staff or other people not to give the wrong medicine to you.
Taking allergy medication
Allergy sufferers are strongly advised to keep allergy medicine handy and carry it everywhere. That way, if you experience a reaction, simply stop using the drug and relieve the symptoms by taking allergy medication. The most common drugs used to treat drug allergies are antihistamines and corticosteroids. Both are effective in relieving mild allergy symptoms such as skin rashes and redness, sneezing and runny nose, to red eyes. If an allergic reaction makes you short of breath and coughing, bronchodilators such as albuterol may be used. However, you should consult with your doctor first considering that allergy medications can also trigger allergic reactions in some people.
Apply cream to relieve itching
Apart from taking medication, you can also apply hydrocortisone cream containing steroids as a treatment for itching when allergic. Generally you will be given a cream with a standard dose of steroids. Don’t hesitate to ask your doctor or pharmacist for guidelines for using steroid drugs. The reason is, you are not advised to use steroid creams too often, too much, or in the long term because they can cause side effects
Inject epinephrine
Epinephrine injection may be given as first aid for a severe allergic reaction known as anaphylactic shock. Epinephrine works by restoring body systems that were affected by histamine during an allergic reaction. You should inject epinephrine as soon as the anaphylactic reaction occurs. Signs of a serious allergic reaction include fainting, decreased heartbeat, shortness of breath, severe itching, swelling and redness of the skin.