Medication Allergies in elderly loved ones in Delaware and Montgomery County, PA, Pennsylvania, New Jersey and Delaware, Seniors who allerigic to meds

A medication allergy is an infrequent and unwanted side affect to medications. Allergic reactions can vary from a mild rash to a more serious reaction that can be life-threatening.

1. There are 2 categories of medication reactions.

 Reaction that is common and predictable. Includes expected side effects and interactions from taking too much medication.
 Reaction that is unpredictable, and only occur in certain people. Includes unexpected side effects, medication intolerance, allergies and other non-allergic immunologic reactions.

An allergic reaction may not happen the first time you take the medication. The reaction is likely to happen when you take the medication again.

2. Signs and symptoms of medication allergies – Common medication reactions can occur within a few days or in a few weeks. Anaphylaxis reaction is a life-threatening effect of a medication allergy. Anaphylaxis reactions usually occur within a few minutes to a few hours.

Common medication allergies include:

 Itching
 Swollen, red rash
 Hives
 Swelling or welts in the skin
 Mild/moderate wheezing

Anaphylaxis reactions include:

 Difficulty breathing
 Wheezing
 Swelling in the face
 Dizziness, fainting
 Rapid/weak pulse
 Drop in blood pressure
 Nausea/Vomiting/Diarrhea
 Abdominal pain

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3. Common Medication Allergies

 Penicillin (antibiotics)
 Cephalosporin (antibiotics)
 Sulfonamides (antibiotics, diabetes medication, diuretics)
 Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs
 IV Contrast Dye
 Local Anesthetics
 General Anesthesia
 Anti-Seizure Medications

4. When to Seek Medical Care – always contact the physician who prescribed the medication to you for advice.

 If symptoms are mild, the physician may change the medication you are taking. If you cannot reach your physician, go to a hospital emergency room.
 If you are having difficulty breathing, swelling in your throat, or feeling faint, you should go to the emergency room, or call 911 immediately for possible anaphylactic reaction. This article courtesy of Comfort Keepers.