The Danger of Penicillin Allergy

Penicillin allergy can range from moderately uncomfortable reactions such as rash or hives to reactions that are potentially life threatening. We first found out that my son is allergic to penicillin when he was given a form of penicillin as a toddler for an ear infection. He had a reaction that consisted of fever, diarrhea and rash that appeared all over his body, similar to measles. After a second visit to the doctor we were told he is allergic to penicillin.

Years later, following an abscessed tooth we have found that he is allergic to other medications as well. One of the medications prescribed for the abscess caused an allergic reaction that consisted of wheezing, dizziness and vomiting.

Allergic reactions to penicillin are the most common form of drug allergies. Most people that are allergic to penicillin are also allergic to other related antibiotics and may require antibiotics that are not related to penicillin. Symptoms of penicillin allergy may include rash, hives, wheezing, dizziness, slurred speech, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, swollen face and rapid or weak pulse. The most severe allergic reaction is anaphylaxis. The airway constricts and can lead to death if not treated immediately. If any swelling of the face is present or cyanosis (a bluish discoloration of the lips or fingertips) seek medical attention immediately.

An allergy to penicillin may be treated by intravenous administration of corticosteroids or antihistamines or by a shot of epinephrine. It is unknown why some people develop allergic reactions to penicillin or other drugs and some do not. Out of my four children, only one of them is allergic to penicillin. His father was not allergic to penicillin nor am I. There is a skin test that can be performed to determine if an individual is allergic to penicillin.

It is possible for a person to mistake an adverse reaction to the drug through a side effect of the medication with an actual allergic reaction. The best way to determine a true allergy to penicillin is through a skin test. Those who have had a severe reaction to penicillin may need to keep an allergy kit on hand, which contains a shot of epinephrine. They may also want to wear or carry some form of medical alert that identifies them as being allergic. Although it is common sense, it's worth repeating that you should never take anyone else's medication. A medication that is helpful to one person can be deadly for another.