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Medications
can cause many types of allergic reactions, including skin rash,
hives and itching. Some allergic reactions
are more dangerous and are life-threatening; symptoms include:
- mouth and tongue
swelling
- swelling of the
throat and neck
- difficulty breathing
- chest tightness
Speak with your
doctor or a pharmacist before taking any drugs, even over-the-counter
medications. If your reaction is severe, wear a MedicAlert® necklace
or bracelet. These are available from this registered charity at
MedicAlert
Box 9800, Station Don Mills
Toronto, Ontario M3C 2T9
1-800-668-1507
www.medicalert.org
How to treat the allergic reaction:
- Take Benadryl®
(plain). You do not need a prescription for this. Do NOT drive or
operate heavy machinery while taking this; OR
- Take whatever
medication your doctor has prescribed for you.
- You should not
be alone for 24 hours, in case your reaction returns.
- To help with
the itch, put cool compresses on the skin or take a cool bath or bath
with Aveeno®.
- Do not take hot
baths or showers.
- Wear loose clothes
and loose-fitting underwear.
Go to the OUCC or the Emergency Department if:
- you have any
problem breathing
- you have a tight
feeling in your throat or chest
- you have any
swelling of your mouth, lips or tongue
- you have hives,
itching or swelling over all of your body.
These are signs of a medical
emergency. Get immediate medical help. Dial 911 or call the operator
to get help; do NOT drive a car yourself if you have these symptoms!
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