Most common allergic reactions
Allergic reactions (hypersensitivity reactions) are inappropriate responses of the immune system to a normally harmless substance.
Allergic reactions can cause respiratory, ocular and cutaneous symptoms. The most common manifestations are:
- Respiratory and ocular - sneezing, itchy nose and eyes, nasal obstruction, tearing and runny nose. In more serious cases it may occur difficulty in breathing (dyspnea)
- Urticaria - itchy skin with red patches and a rash.
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Angioedema - swelling usually in the lips and periocular region.
Anaphylactic reactions
These are severe allergic reactions in which the patient's life is at risk, and can present shortness of breath, edema of the glottis, sensation of faintness, decrease in blood pressure, bronchospasms (shortness of breath) and can die if not attended to immediately. It may be caused by allergy to medication (e.g. antibiotics, contrast agents, muscle relaxants etc.), food (e.g. shrimp, peanuts, eggs etc.), insect venom (e.g. ants, bees and wasps).
In case of reaction follow doctor's instructions. Seek emergency hospital treatment immediately if you suspect a serious reaction.
Written on 03/04/2024
Fernando Aarestrup
