Colds and Sinuses

Penicillin Allergy Remedy

A penicillin allergy can cause many uncomfortable symptoms such as hives, rash, itchy skin, wheezing, and swelling of the lips, tongue or face. A severe anaphylactic allergic reaction can be fatal and symptoms can include contracted airways, decreased blood pressure, weak pulse, dizziness, hives, flushed skin, nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea. Treatment depends on the severity of the penicillin allergy.

Avoidance is the best treatment for a penicillin allergy remedy. Some of the drugs in the penicillin family include amoxicillin, ampicillin, dicloxacillin, nafcillin, penicillin V, and penicillin G. Consider wearing a MedicAlert bracelet. Make sure your doctor, hospital and local pharmacy have your allergies on file. Any time you get an antibiotic filled, ask if it is related to the penicillin family.

Epinephrine, a type of adrenaline, is injected for severe reactions and works as a bronchodilator to help open airways. The point of an epinephrine injection is to help keep you alive until you can get to the emergency room for treatment.

Antihistamines, such as Benadryl, are given for most mild to moderate symptoms via pill or IV and work by counteracting histamines, which are chemicals the body releases during an allergic reaction.

Bronchodilators are used to help restore breathing and wheezing by widening the airways.

Corticosteroids help to reduce inflammation caused by the allergic reaction and can be taken preventatively as well.

Desensitization is a process in which a person’s body slowly decreases in sensitivity to penicillin, which can greatly benefit a person who is allergic to penicillin. Remedy of a penicillin allergy includes small doses of penicillin that are injected into the body over time, with the dosage increasing slowly, until the body can handle it. This is similar to allergy shots. In most cases, a skin test is done to confirm a true allergy to penicillin. Some people suffer from an intolerance, which is different. Some people suffer from severe or very uncomfortable side effects. A medication allergy often comes in the form of swelling, hives, rashes and anaphylactic shock.