Stevens-Johnson syndrome is a life-threatening skin disease that occurs most often as an allergic reaction to certain medications. These medications include sulfa and penicillin antibiotics, anticonvulsants, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, or NSAIDS, and the anti-gout medication allopurinol. Blistering rashes, as well as blisters on the mucous membranes such as those in the mouth, eyes, anus and genitals, characterize Stevens-Johnson syndrome. Early symptoms often mimic the symptoms of other illnesses.
Flu-like Symptoms
Noticeable symptoms like skin blisters often do not present for 1 to 2 weeks after people begin taking the offending medication. However, people may begin to feel flu-like symptoms such as a fever, chills and body aches soon after beginning the medication, according to MayoClinic.com. It is common for people with early signs of Stevens-Johnson syndrome to have achy joints and to complain of an overall sense of feeling ill. People often mistake this for a common cold and do not contact their physician.
Rash
A rash that presents on the face and trunk characterizes Stevens-Johnson syndrome, according to the Merck Manuals Online Medical Library. The rash will commonly appear flat and red, spreading across the body in an irregular pattern. A person will begin to develop blisters in the center of the rash that rub off easily; this can take hours or weeks. Other times, the skin will begin to die and slough off, leaving the body susceptible to many types of infections.
Burning Eyes
People may begin to feel a burning sensation in the eyes, and also experience itchy or watery eyes such as with a pollen allergy. According to MedlinePlus, people may develop a noticeable swelling or discharge pus from the eyes. As the disease progresses, the eyes may seal shut and corneal scarring may occur.
Cough
Another early symptom of Stevens-Johnson syndrome is cough. The Merck Manuals Online Medical Library explains that the disease can affect the mucous membranes of the digestive and respiratory systems, which can irritate the delicate inner tissues. A cough alone may not signify the onset of Stevens-Johnson syndrome, but when it is accompanied by other symptoms, sufferers should alert their physician to determine whether further testing or treatment is needed.
