Drug allergies occur when the body reacts to a medication that enters the body. The body sees this drug as a threat or invader and starts an immune response that builds antibodies to the drug, much like it does after exposure to a vaccine or illness. Drug allergies usually do not present the first time you take a drug, but subsequent times after the body has built up these antibodies that then begin attacking. You can be allergic to both over-the-counter and prescription medications, which can cause reactions ranging from mild to severe, but drug allergies always require medical attention. It is important to recognize the symptoms of a possible drug allergy and visit your local emergency room or call 911 immediately, as sometimes drug allergies can become life-threatening.
Upset Stomach
After ingesting a drug that you are allergic to, it is common to experience an upset stomach. The symptoms of an upset stomach due to a drug allergy can include heartburn, excessive belching, nausea and vomiting. These symptoms can range from mild in nature to severe. Excessive nausea accompanied by vomiting can quickly lead to dehydration and needs to be treated by a health care provider immediately.
Hives
A common response of the immune system to a foreign invader is hives. Hives are a type of rash typified by patches of many small reddened spots on the skin. Most commonly, hives itch; they can be mild, moderate or severe. Hives do not itch only in a few cases. It is important to avoid scratching hives when they itch as this deposits histamine under the fingernails. Histamine is a chemical released by the body during an immune response and can be spread to other areas of the skin. If histamine is spread to another area of the body, hives usually develop there as well.
Congestion
After taking a drug that you are allergic to, congestion is a common symptom. As one of the body's methods of eliminating the drug from your body, excess mucus is produced. The mucus traps the foreign body, and then through coughing, sneezing and a runny nose, the mucus is expelled from the body, along with the allergen. As a result, congestion occurs when the sinus cavities, nose and throat are filled with this excess mucus.
Anaphylaxis
If you take a drug that you are allergic to, anaphylactic shock may occur. As a major immune response develops to eliminate the drug's threat to your body, anaphylaxis may occur and become life-threatening in a matter of minutes. If you experience difficulty breathing and swelling of the eyes, nasal passageways or throat, call 911 immediately for emergency medical treatment. During anaphylactic shock, you may also experience dizziness, fainting, rapid heartbeat, anxiety and confusion. These symptoms are not to be taken lightly and warrant an ambulance. Do not attempt to drive yourself to the emergency room as death can occur quickly. Emergency medical technicians can begin life-saving care on the way to the hospital.
