Penicillin antibiotic allergy: symptoms and modern treatment

What is a penicillin allergy?

Penicillin allergy is an immune reaction of the body to penicillin drugs. In this case, the body perceives the drugs as harmful and initiates allergic reactions, which can manifest in different ways.

Causes of penicillin allergy

Penicillin allergy usually results from frequent or improper use of penicillin-type antibiotics such as ampicillin and other penicillins. In some cases, cross-allergies are possible, when the body reacts to one drug because it is similar to another.

Penicillin allergy symptoms

How does a penicillin allergy manifest itself? Symptoms can be varied and depend on the degree of the allergy.

• Mild symptoms usually include rashes, itching, and hives. There may also be mild digestive disorders such as diarrhea or nausea.
• Severe allergic reactions, such as anaphylactic shock, are rare but dangerous manifestations of penicillin allergy. They require immediate medical attention and may manifest as laryngeal edema, difficulty breathing, decreased blood pressure, and loss of consciousness.

Diagnosis of penicillin allergy

To find out if you are allergic to penicillin, your doctor may prescribe special tests. This may be a skin test or a blood test to detect antibodies to penicillin.

Treatment and management of penicillin allergy

If you are allergic to penicillin, the surest way to prevent a reaction is to avoid penicillin-containing medications altogether. Always tell your doctor about your allergy.

Alternative antibiotics

Penicillin allergy, what antibiotics can I take? There are many alternative drugs that can be used instead of penicillins. These can be macrolides (such as azithromycin), fluoroquinolones (such as ciprofloxacin), or cephalosporins (such as cefuroxime).

Desensitization

In some cases where other antibiotics are not effective, doctors may recommend a desensitization procedure. This is a procedure in which small doses of penicillin are gradually injected into the body so that the body learns to tolerate it.

In conclusion, it is worth noting that penicillin allergy is a serious condition that requires a careful approach and professional treatment. If you notice symptoms similar to allergies, be sure to see a doctor. Stay healthy!