Most antibiotic allergies can be treated with antihistamines, but severe allergies can be life-threatening, which is why testing to see if you are allergic can be so vital.
Overview
What is an antibiotic allergy?
Your body mistakenly treats the antibiotic as a threat and releases antibodies in response.
How do I know whether I have an antibiotic allergy, or a side effect?
Most antibiotic side effects affect the digestive system. Most antibiotic allergies do not, although there is some overlap, which is why you need testing.
What are the symptoms?
Mild to moderate symptoms include wheezing, coughing, shortness of breath and itchy skin. Severe symptoms can include anaphylaxis, which can be life threatening.
How do I get tested?
Book a simple blood test now.
Did You Know?
Allergic reactions to antibiotics may affect up to 1 in 15 people in the UK.
Which antibiotic allergy?
You have probably heard about the challenge faced by the medical profession in finding new antibiotics. Antibiotics treat bacterial infections (not viral ones). But continued use has meant that a growing number of bacterial strains are developing immunity to existing antibiotics.
This means that an antibiotic allergy could be a significant issue should you require treatment. Antibiotics can treat a wide range of conditions, from acne to pneumonia. But when your choice of effective antibiotics is becoming more restricted, an allergy can complicate things further.
That is why testing can be so vital.
Most people know of at least one form of antibiotic (such as penicillin), but there are several ‘types’ of antibiotic, broadly grouped into six categories. Testing can identify which antibiotics you are safe to take.
Allergic reaction or side effect?
It is very common to find people who believe they are allergic to antibiotics. Yet often, what they believe is an allergic reaction is a side effect of the drug. Side effects of antibiotics can be unpleasant, but they tend to affect the digestive system, causing stomach cramps, nausea, vomiting and diarrhoea.
In contrast, an antibiotic allergy tends to trigger a different set of reactions (see below) although there can be some overlap, which is why testing is vital to know for sure which condition you have.
What are the symptoms of an antibiotic allergy?
Antibiotic allergy symptoms can include:
- Itchy mouth, throat and ears
- Persistent coughing or wheezing
- A raised, red, itchy rash anywhere on the body (hives)
- Breathing difficulties
The most severe reaction to an antibiotic allergy, anaphylaxis, can be life threatening. If the symptoms above lead to shortness of breath, a rapid heartbeat, faintness and clammy skin, dial 999.
How do I get tested?
Better2Know offers a simple blood test designed to check for a range of antibiotic allergies, including:
- Ampicillin
- Amoxicillin
- Cefaclor
- Pen G
- Pen V
To book your test, contact Better2Know now on the number above.