How to cure a skin rash caused by an allergy to antibiotics

Author: John Stephens
Date Of Creation: 2 January 2021
Update Date: 1 July 2024
Anonim
Health Tips - Antibiotic Allergies
Video: Health Tips - Antibiotic Allergies

Content

Antibiotics, especially the penicillin and sulfa groups, are the most common cause of drug allergies. Most drug allergies present with hives, swelling and a rash (redness) on the skin, but some people have rare and life-threatening reactions called anaphylaxis (anaphylaxis). . A drug allergy is caused by the immune system mistaking an antibiotic for a foreign substance, causing skin to become swollen, or in more severe cases, constriction of the airways and shock, which can lead to loss of consciousness or death. death. If you develop anaphylactic symptoms, it is imperative that you seek immediate medical attention, as this is an emergency. You will feel better, maybe even save your life by learning how to cure a skin rash and recognizing the signs of a more serious reaction.

Steps

Method 1 of 3: Get medical help


  1. Go to the emergency room or call emergency services. When you suspect you have an antibiotic allergy, seek immediate medical attention, no matter the severity of your symptoms. Many allergies show only a rash on the skin and cause no complications, but it's important to keep your doctor informed of your body's reactions. Some rashes can be caused by Stevens-Johnson syndrome, a serious complication that requires hospitalization. Some rashes are a warning sign of anaphylaxis that can be fatal if left untreated. Get medical help right away if you experience the following:
    • Fever
    • Sore throat / mouth, with or without cough
    • Swelling of the face
    • Swelling of the tongue
    • Burning skin
    • Redness and / or blistering
    • Hives
    • Difficulty breathing or throat spasm
    • Unusual hoarseness
    • Hives or swelling
    • Nausea or vomiting
    • Stomachache
    • Dizziness or fainting
    • Heart beat fast
    • Feeling of panic

  2. Stop taking the medicine. If any allergic reaction to the antibiotic occurs, you must stop taking it and avoid exposure to it.Exposure to antibiotics can happen unintentionally, so it's important to take precautions.
    • Tell your healthcare provider about your allergy when receiving any kind of treatment. Make sure this is recorded in your medical record for future reference, but never assume that a medical staff has seen your record or learned of your allergy. It is your responsibility to notify you of your allergy upon receiving treatment.
    • Use health warning bracelets. These bracelets are very helpful, especially if you need emergency care while unconscious. It will notify medical staff of your allergy promptly if you lose the ability to communicate.
    • You may need to carry an auto-epinephrine injection pen (often called an "Epipen"). This device is usually only necessary for people prone to anaphylaxis, but your doctor may advise you to have one ready if you are prone to severe allergies.

  3. Ask your doctor about methods of hypersensitivity. In most cases diagnosed with an allergy, your doctor will prescribe an alternative medicine. However, this may not be a good option in some special cases, when the benefits outweigh the risks and there is no alternative medicine. If you must Taking certain drugs, doctors can treat them with hypersensitivity methods.
    • During the desensitization process, you will be given a minimal dose of the drug to which you are allergic and monitored for your symptoms. Thereafter, your doctor will prescribe a gradual increase in dosage every 15-30 minutes during a multi-hour, even multi-day course.
    • If you can tolerate the desired dose without any adverse reactions, your doctor can safely prescribe the medication with the normal course.
    • This method is only applicable for severe cases and is performed by a trained emergency practitioner.
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Method 2 of 3: Treat mild allergic cases with medication

  1. Take an antihistamine. Antihistamines work to increase the mobility of white blood cells, while minimizing histamine production in the body by the immune system in response to allergens. Depending on the severity of the allergic condition, your doctor may prescribe an antihistamine or recommend over-the-counter medications.
    • Diphenhydramine (Benadryl). In the case of a severe allergy, diphenhydramine (Benadryl) is always the right medication, as it is a strong antihistamine. Consider having this medication in your first aid kit.
    • Other over-the-counter antihistamines include loratadine (Claritin), cetirizine (Zyrtec), or chlorpheniramine (Aller-Chlor).
    • Your dosage will depend on a number of factors, including your age and the type of antihistamine you take. Follow the directions on the label or ask your doctor or pharmacist about the dosage to use.
    • Do not drive or operate machinery after taking an antihistamine, as most 1st generation antihistamines (such as Benadryl) can make the drinker extremely sleepy and make it difficult for the body to function.
    • Do not take antihistamines if you are pregnant or breast-feeding. These drugs can cause side effects in the baby and birth defects.
    • Do not give antihistamines to children under 4 years old. If your child has a severe allergy, you will need to take him to the emergency room. Don't wait until your baby has difficulty breathing or has swelling in his face - get the baby to the emergency room as soon as possible.
    • Some elderly patients experience side effects from antihistamines. These side effects include confusion, dizziness, drowsiness, nervousness, and irritability. This can put you at risk of falling. Falls and hip fractures can be fatal in the elderly, as their immune systems are not as strong as young or middle-aged people.
  2. Apply calamine lotion. If you have a rash or hives due to an allergic reaction, you can use calamine lotion to ease the itching and discomfort.
    • Calamine lotion is a mixture of calamine, zinc oxide and other ingredients. Calamine and zinc oxide are both anti-itch topical medications.
    • Calamine is for external use only. You should not take calamine, nor should you apply it near your eyes, nose, mouth, genitals, or anal area.
  3. Try hydrocortisone cream. You can buy over-the-counter low-dose hydrocortisone cream with a concentration of 0.5% or 1%, and the stronger one is available by prescription. This topical medication suppresses the body's immune response to reducing skin irritation, itching, and redness.
    • Hydrocortisone cream is a steroid medicine applied topically. This class of medications is generally safe, but you should not use it for more than 7 days in a row to avoid complications, including itching, skin cracking, skin wear and acne breakouts.
    • Topical hydrocortisone should not be used in children younger than 2 years old. Do not take this medicine if you are pregnant or breast-feeding unless directed to do so by your doctor.
    • Apply on allergic skin 1-4 times a day, up to 7 days. Avoid contact with eyes if applied to face.
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Method 3 of 3: Using home remedies and making lifestyle changes

  1. Take a warm bath. Water that is too hot or too cold can affect the urticaria and can be exacerbated in the presence of hives. For best results, you should soak in a comfortable, room temperature bath to soothe skin rashes.
    • Mix a bath with baking soda, raw oatmeal, or pureed oatmeal to help relieve itching.
    • Avoid using soap if you are unsure if the brand is irritating to the skin with a hives.
  2. Apply a cold compress. A cold, wet bandage can help relieve the symptoms associated with the rash and hives. Contact with cold wet dressings can sooth the irritated skin and help reduce inflammation by reducing the rate of blood circulation to the affected area.
  3. Avoid irritating factors. Many factors can cause hives and hives. Even if there is normally no household irritation, you should still avoid it if you don't know how the rash / hives will react to these. Common triggers of irritation include:
    • cosmetic
    • Dyes (including fabric dyes)
    • Fur and feather products
    • Hair color
    • Latex rubber
    • Products containing nickel, including jewelry, zippers, buttons, and kitchenware
    • Nail care products, including nail polish and artificial nails
    • Soap and household cleaning products
  4. Try not to scratch or rub. Even if the rash is very itchy, avoid scratching or rubbing the rash / hives. You can tear the skin when scratching, making the skin more susceptible to infection and slowing the healing process.
  5. Avoid exposure to heat. In some people, exposure to heat and humidity can worsen hives and hives. If you are experiencing a rash or hives, avoid exposure to heat and moisture and do not exercise.
  6. Wear comfortable, comfortable clothing. If you are experiencing a rash and hives, you need to wear appropriate clothing to prevent further irritation. Choose soft fabrics like cotton. Avoid tight clothing as well as rough and itchy materials like wool. advertisement