What are the clinical manifestations of drug allergic reactions?
Disease description:
My mother-in-law has been taking antihypertensive medication and has developed a rash. We are unsure whether this is a clinical manifestation of a drug allergic reaction. What are the clinical manifestations of drug allergic reactions?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Liu Wenmin
Clinical manifestations of drug allergic reactions include skin reactions, digestive system reactions, respiratory system reactions, circulatory system reactions, and nervous system reactions.
1. Skin reactions: Rashes, erythema, papules, urticaria, and edema may occur. These reactions commonly appear on the face, lips, tongue, or skin throughout the body and are often accompanied by itching.
2. Digestive system reactions: Drug allergies may cause symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and diarrhea. These symptoms typically occur after medication intake and may affect the patient's nutritional intake and fluid and electrolyte balance.
3. Respiratory system reactions: Drug allergies may trigger symptoms including nasal congestion, runny nose, cough, wheezing, and difficulty breathing. These symptoms may appear alone or occur simultaneously with other allergic symptoms.
4. Circulatory system reactions: Symptoms such as hypotension and arrhythmia may occur. Patients with low blood pressure may feel unsteady upon standing, while those with arrhythmias may experience palpitations and chest tightness.
5. Nervous system reactions: The nervous system may exhibit symptoms such as dizziness, headache, and impaired consciousness. In severe cases, seizures may occur, characterized by involuntary limb movements and loss of consciousness.
When symptoms suggestive of a drug allergy occur, the suspected medication should be discontinued immediately, and prompt medical evaluation and treatment should be sought.
