Symptoms of Allergy to Aspirin

Aspirin was introduced in the year 1899 and has been widely used ever since. Aspirin, otherwise known as acetylsalicylic acid, is used to reduce fever, to relieve pain and also to prevent heart attacks. Aspirin, although useful in many ways, can cause an adverse drug reaction in some people. While many people refer to these symptoms as allergic reactions, most doctors---such as Dr. James Li, M.D., asthma specialist with the Mayo Clinic---refer to any reaction to the drug as "aspirin sensitivity."

Hives

One common symptom of an allergic reaction to aspirin is hives. Hives are red, swollen patches that appear on the skin, in various shapes and sizes, and can occur immediately or up to a few days following a dose of aspirin.

Swollen lips or eyes

Another allergy symptom is swollen lips or eyes. The swelling can appear a few hours after taking the aspirin or days later.

Coughing and wheezing

Some people experience extreme coughing as a reaction to aspirin. The coughing can be accompanied by wheezing. Both can get worse if left untreated.

Shortness of breath

Shortness of breath might occur as the glands in the throat swell. When the glottis, located in the back of the throat, swells, breathing can become difficult.

Rashes

Rashes milder than hives can appear on the skin from the allergic reaction to aspirin. Some are mild, in one location, while others can spread all over the skin.

References

• Mayo Clinic

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