Morphine is a sedative used to treat pain. Often an adverse response to morphine will be due to something other than an immune reaction. Such occurrences are not true allergies, as allergies are an immune system response. True allergies to morphine are rare, but when they do occur, doctors may prescribe a different class of opiate in order to avoid the symptoms of morphine allergy.
Skin Rash
Allergic dermatitis is occurs when the symptoms of an allergy manifest as a skin rash. These rashes can assume a variety of forms, from hives to blisters. Patients who suspect that their skin rash is related to morphine can be given a diagnostic patch test to confirm whether morphine is indeed the cause of their symptoms, according to the Medical College of Wisconsin.
Nasal Congestion
The runny nose and watery eyes of hay fever are also present as symptoms of other forms of allergy, such as morphine sensitivity. This is due to the release of histamines by the immune system in response to exposure to an allergen. Histamine increases the permeability in the walls of blood vessels, thus allowing fluids and white blood cells to flow into surrounding tissues. The itchy, uncomfortable symptoms of nasal congestion are related to this histamine-regulated response.
Bronchospasm
The Internet Journal of Asthma, Allergy and Immunology warns that doctors will sometimes avoid prescribing morphine because it has the potential to prompt bronchospasm. This symptom occurs when the muscles in the airways of the lungs constrict, impeding the flow of air. It is a common symptom of asthma as well as allergy. Breathing is difficult for a person who is experiencing bronchospasm.
Anaphylaxis
Anaphylaxis is one of the signs that a true allergy to morphine, rather than an adverse effect, is occurring. MedlinePlus explains that anaphylaxis is an allergic reaction that affects the whole body. Anaphylaxis is characterized by a rapid onset of symptoms that include slurred speech, difficulty breathing or swallowing, anxiety and confusion, palpitations and fainting or light-headedness. Anaphylaxis is a serious, life-threatening condition and anyone who is suspected of having an anaphylactic reaction should receive immediate medical care.
References
- MedlinePlus: Anaphylaxis
- Internet Journal of Asthma, Allergy and Immunology: Propofol-induced Bronchodilation In Patients With Status Asthmaticus
- Opioids and Chronic Nonmalignant Pain; Anticipating and Managing Common Opioid Adverse Effects
- University of Chicago: Using Opioids for Pain
- Medical College of Wisconsin: Opioid Allergic Reactions
Member Comments