Penicillin allergy is a condition in which a person's body develops hypersensitivity to penicillin or penicillin derivatives. Penicillin is an antibiotic that is widely used to treat bacterial infections. However, some people can develop allergic reactions to this medicine.
If a person is suspected of having a penicillin allergy, they should contact a health professional and provide information about their past allergic reactions. Allergists can help confirm the allergy with methods such as skin tests or blood tests. People with penicillin allergy may be prescribed alternative antibiotics.
What are the symptoms of penicillin allergy?
Symptoms of penicillin allergy can vary from person to person, but here are some common symptoms:
Skin Reactions: Skin changes such as redness, itching, rashes or blisters.
Breathing Problems: Breathing problems such as difficulty breathing, wheezing or swelling in the throat.
Facial Swelling: Swelling of the face, lips or tongue.
Stomach Problems: Digestive system problems such as nausea, vomiting or abdominal pain.
Headaches: Severe headaches or migraine attacks.
Low Blood Pressure: A drop in blood pressure, resulting in dizziness or fainting.
What Causes Penicillin Allergy?
Penicillin allergy occurs when the body becomes hypersensitive to the antibiotic penicillin. This overreaction can usually be attributed to the following causes:
Immune System Reactions: When penicillin enters the body, it can be recognized by the immune system as a potential threat. In this case, the immune system activates defense mechanisms against penicillin, even though it is not protective.
Genetic Predisposition: Individuals with a family history of drug allergies may be at risk of penicillin allergy. Genetic factors can influence an individual's susceptibility to allergic reactions.
Other Allergic Conditions: Other allergic conditions, such as a history of allergic reactions to another medication, food allergy or hay fever, may increase the risk of developing penicillin allergy.
Continuous Exposure: Continuous exposure to penicillin, either through high doses or continuous use, can cause the body to become hypersensitized and contribute to the occurrence of allergic reactions.
Penicillin allergy is a complex issue and can vary from individual to individual. If an allergy is suspected, it is important to talk to a health professional and have allergy tests done.
How is penicillin allergy diagnosed?
Diagnosis of penicillin allergy begins with a history of allergies through the patient's and family's medication history. Doctors assess specific antibody levels using methods such as skin tests and blood tests. Provocation tests in a controlled environment can also be used, but these tests are often risky and are reserved for special cases.
The diagnostic process is carried out by a specialist and combines the individual's medical history, symptoms and test results to reach the most accurate conclusion. The diagnostic process can be customized according to the individual's health condition and symptoms.
How is penicillin allergy treated?
Treatment of penicillin allergy begins with the discontinuation of allergenic medications determined by doctors. Depending on the severity of symptoms, symptomatic treatment methods such as antihistamines or corticosteroids may be applied.
In severe reactions, emergency treatment, especially epinephrine injections, may be necessary. It is also important that alternative antibiotics are used to prevent future reactions and that the individual is aware of allergic reactions.
Treatment for penicillin allergy varies depending on the individual's health status and the severity of the reaction, so a personalized treatment plan guided by a healthcare professional is essential.