Aspirin may cause intolerance or a true allergy. MayoClinic.com states that most people have aspirin intolerance; however, for some, a true allergy can occur. Allergy symptoms can develop minutes to hours after the medication is taken. A person allergic to aspirin may also react to other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications, or NSAIDS, such as ibuprofen. Aspirin allergy symptoms are potentially life-threatening and should be considered a medical emergency.
Hives
Hives develop in response to an allergy and are generally one of the first allergy symptoms to appear. Hives are large, raised patches that blot the skin and are rose to red in color with a pale center. Commonly, hives develop on the face, neck, torso, trunk and arms. Hives may itch or sting, and may be painful to touch.
Swelling
Swelling of the face, lips and eyelids can occur with aspirin allergy. Tingling in the face, lips or other area may occur before actual swelling develops. Swelling may be mild or severe, depending on the severity of the body's reaction to aspirin. Swelling of the lips, mouth or throat can lead to airway obstruction and difficulty breathing.
Trouble Breathing
Aspirin allergy can result in an asthma attack, especially in people with known asthma. A person may experience tightness in the chest and difficulty taking a deep breath. Trouble breathing may happen slowly and progressively get worse. Medline Plus, a division of the National Institutes of Health, advises that wheezing, or a high-pitched musical sound, may be heard with breathing. The affected person may also have a hoarse voice or trouble speaking.
Additional Symptoms
Anaphylaxis, a life-threatening condition from aspirin allergy, may cause additional allergy symptoms. A person with this condition may experience sudden dizziness, fainting or confusion. She may have a rapid pulse, heart palpations and abdominal pain, as well. The AAAAI states that anaphylactic reactions generally occur up to one hour after taking aspirin, though symptoms can occur later, and are accompanied by other symptoms, such as hives.
Rarely, according the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology, a person may experience blisters or peeling of the skin in reaction to taking aspirin. Blisters may form on the eyelids, mouth, lips and genital region. Peeling of the skin can happen anywhere on the body and resembles a burn to the upper layer of skin.
