Aspirin and anaphylaxis

Reactions after aspirin can take different forms. Some involve hives or swelling; others cause nasal blockage, wheezing, or worsening asthma. Anaphylaxis is the severe end of this spectrum and may affect the airway, breathing, circulation, skin, or gut in a rapidly developing combination. The timing, symptoms, dose, other medicines, asthma history, and presence of nasal polyps help a clinician distinguish possible aspirin hypersensitivity from an unrelated event.

For suspected anaphylaxis, use prescribed adrenaline immediately and call UAE emergency services. Keep the person lying flat unless breathing requires a supported sitting position, and avoid sudden standing or walking. Do not give more aspirin. Until medical review, check medicine labels and tell pharmacists and clinicians about the reaction; aspirin can appear in combination products. Do not independently test aspirin or substitute another anti-inflammatory painkiller, because cross-reactions can occur in some patterns of hypersensitivity.

Seek emergency help for tongue or throat swelling, difficulty speaking or swallowing, wheezing, laboured breathing, collapse, severe dizziness, confusion, or rapidly spreading symptoms after aspirin. Skin changes may be absent, so do not wait for hives before acting. Anyone treated with adrenaline should be assessed in an emergency setting even after apparent recovery, as symptoms can recur and further treatment may be required.

Discuss which product and dose preceded the reaction, whether related anti-inflammatory medicines need avoidance, and which pain or fever treatments are suitable for you. Ask whether your asthma or nasal symptoms change the assessment, whether supervised testing is appropriate, and what wording should appear in your medicine allergy record and emergency plan.