Having an allergic reaction to some medication, especially penicillin or related antibiotics is a more common that you think. Statistics say that about 10% of people around the world may have adverse reactions to medications. Allergic reactions to medications or drug allergies as they are also called can result from any kind of medical treatment you might be taking. These treatments can be in the form of pills, liquid, or even injections and the medicines can include herbal, prescription, or over-the-counter.
What is a Drug Allergy?
A drug allergy is your body’s immune system attacking the medication like it was some foreign body. In response, it creates antibodies that result in the release of histamines. The allergy can manifest itself in many ways. However, do keep in mind that the side effects of drugs and allergic reactions are entirely distinct and should not be confused. Look out for these signs. If you notice any of these symptoms soon after taking some medication, you could be having a reaction.
- Dizziness and feeling light-headed
- Difficulty in breathing and wheezing
- Hives and skin rash
- Fever
- Swelling and itchiness
- Running nose with watering eyes
- Having trouble speaking
- Vomiting, nausea, or abdominal pain
- Swelling of the tongue, lips, or throat
- Losing consciousness
Dealing with an Allergic Reaction
The first steps to take in case of a drug allergy is to stop taking the medication and contact your doctor right away. If you experience red blisters, fever, skin peeling off without blistering, or scalding skin in addition to the symptoms described above, call 911 immediately. In case the symptoms are mild, your doctor will probably ask you to take anti-histamines, apply cold compresses or take cold showers. Apply calamine lotion to calm the itching and make sure you wear loose-fitting clothes. Allergies caused by anaphylaxis need an epinephrine injection right away.
Protecting Yourself from Further Allergies
To identify the particular drugs and medications you’re allergic to, your doctor might prescribe certain tests. Do remember that most allergies are likely to be caused when you consume the medicine regularly. Further, creams, ointments, and injections are more apt to result in harm as compared to oral medication. The tests can help diagnose drug allergies include a visual examination, skin testing, and blood tests. Based on the test results, you’ll receive a list of medication to avoid for the future. Your doctor will also add the information to your medical records for reference. Here are some other steps you must take:
- Inform your medical practitioner or healthcare worker whenever you come in for treatment of any kind.
- Have on a medical alert bracelet all the time.
- If you have had a severe reaction in the past, you might be advised to carry a self-injecting epinephrine device.
Alternative Medicines and Treatments
Once your doctor has established that you cannot safely take conventional medication for ailments, he might advise you to avoid specific drugs and instead opt for alternative forms of treatment. These treatments can include herbal medicines, Ayurvedic medicines, chiropractic procedures, acupuncture or any others that work well for you. One such treatment that is absolutely safe to use by itself or as a complement to the conventional medical care you take is PRP therapy.
What is PRP Therapy?
PRP (Platelet Rich Plasma) is a serum that is created from your blood. A small sample taken from your forearm is placed in a centrifugal device and then spun at high speeds. The motion causes the blood to separate into distinct layers with the red blood cells or RBCs settling at the bottom. The layer above it is the buffy coat that contains a concentration of platelets, growth factors, mesenchymal stem cells, and other components that speed up the healing process.
The only additives doctors might use are anti-clotting compounds or epinephrine to help relieve any possible discomfort from the procedure. Epinephrine is an antihistamine, and that makes PRP therapy all the safer to use. You can rest assured that since the PRP serum is formulated from your blood, there is no possibility of your body rejecting it and causing any allergic reactions. PRP therapy is highly effective for a wide range of medical and aesthetic issues including tendonitis, osteoarthritis, hair loss, acne scarring, signs of aging, sexual dysfunction, tennis elbow, and Achilles’ heel to name a few.
If you’re prone to having allergic reactions and are looking for some treatment that is safe to use, consider PRP therapy as an alternative with the recommendation of your medical practitioner.
Drug allergies is a serious condition, but with the proper care and precautions, you can avoid reactions. Among the alternative modalities for medical treatment is PRP therapy that is safe and effective to use. Ask your doctor about the process and how it can help you.