What Are the Signs of an Allergic Reaction to Bactrim?
People with sulfa allergies will typically have an allergic reaction to bactrim, an antibiotic that contains sulfamethoxazole, and may experience a number of unpleasant symptoms. The most common place for signs of an allergy to occur is on the skin, in the form of a rash, hives, or sensitivity to light, and in extreme cases as Stevens-Johnson syndrome. There can also be changes to the person's blood composition and effects on certain internal organs. Some people may find that they have swelling in the face, mouth, or throat, which can make breathing or swallowing difficult. In severe cases, one may develop anaphylaxis, a potentially dangerous condition with symptoms that include problems breathing, increased heart rate, and nausea or vomiting.
An allergic reaction to bactrim frequently presents itself on a person's skin. Sufferers may start itching and develop a rash or hives over some or all of their bodies, which can get progressively worse if the medication is not discontinued. They may also find that they have photosensitivity, or sensitivity to sunlight.
While these symptoms are uncomfortable, they are usually not dangerous, but some people can develop a more serious reaction known as Stevens-Johnson syndrome. This condition causes feelings of general illness like headache and fever, and the person will develop red bumps on his or her skin. The most serious problem, however, is that the person's top layer of skin will die and come off. This leaves the skin underneath open and raw, making the person susceptible to infection and other complications.
Someone having an allergic reaction to bactrim may be affected internally as well. The person may have a drop in platelet, red, and white blood cell counts. There can also be damage to the lungs, liver, and kidneys, particularly if the drug is taken for a long period of time.
Swelling can also occur during an allergic reaction to bactrim. It usually occurs in the lips, mouth, and tongue, and may also affect the throat. This can make swallowing hard, and the person may also find that his or her voice is hoarse. If the swelling is severe enough, breathing may be difficult.
In rare cases, a severe condition called anaphylaxis can occur from taking bactrim. This type of reaction often involves abdominal pain, nausea, or vomiting. People may have an increased heart rate or palpitations, and wheezing or difficulty breathing. They may be dizzy, confused, or even faint. Anyone who has this type of allergic reaction to bactrim or any other medication should seek immediate medical attention.
AS FEATURED ON:
AS FEATURED ON:
-
![Signs of an allergy to bactrim may include sensitivity to light.]()
By: Ferrante PietroSigns of an allergy to bactrim may include sensitivity to light. -
![Signs of an allergic reaction to bactrim may include itchiness.]()
By: Dmitry LobanovSigns of an allergic reaction to bactrim may include itchiness. -
![Signs of an allergic reaction to bactrim may include headache.]()
By: Budimir JevticSigns of an allergic reaction to bactrim may include headache. -
![Breathing and swallowing difficulties are symptoms of a severe allergy to bactrim.]()
By: Laurent HamelsBreathing and swallowing difficulties are symptoms of a severe allergy to bactrim. -
![Signs of an allergic reaction to bactrim may include hives.]()
By: marilyn barboneSigns of an allergic reaction to bactrim may include hives. -
![The most common place for signs of an allergic reaction to bactrim to occur is on the skin, in the form of a rash.]()
By: ArToThe most common place for signs of an allergic reaction to bactrim to occur is on the skin, in the form of a rash. -
![Abdominal pain may be a sign of an allergic reaction to bactrim.]()
By: sframeAbdominal pain may be a sign of an allergic reaction to bactrim.
Discussion Comments
One day after starting this med, I could hardly walk due to severe joint pain and swelling of my left knee area, also, my right thumb became swollen. This continued with swelling of my right forearm accompanied by pain. My left knee area then became red. I did not immediately connect the dots, I thought it might be RA. I discontinued the med, and experienced almost immediate relief. Very scary.
The allergic reaction can be slower with this drug, up to two weeks later. Symptoms can be rash and fever and can be misdiagnosed as the flu. This drug should be used with extreme caution.
Started taking Bactrim yesterday and today my hands and feet are very swollen. I also felt a bit of rapid heart beat when I was laying on my right side.
This medication caused my kidneys to stop working properly and because of that, my potassium level went up to over 800; normal is about 100 to 200. Potassium this high caused my muscles to stop working, I could barely move. It also could have sent me into cardiac arrest. I was in the critical care cardiac unit at the hospital for almost a week. Never again!
Are headaches and light sensitivity symptoms of an allergy?
@MikeMason-- Sensitivity to sulfa group antibiotics is common but the severe allergic reactions your cousin experienced is not very common.
I have sensitivity to bactrim as well. It gave me a fever that disappeared when I stopped taking it. It didn't pose any serious risk to my health though, and I know that sometimes it's necessary and very effective for certain conditions.
Now that I know I am sensitive to sulfa antibiotics, I will avoid it in the future.
My cousin is suffering from nerve damage and Stevens-Johnson syndrome because of this medication. She has chronic pain and fatigue. She has trouble standing up or walking for long periods of time.
She told me that she found many other people online who have had similar allergic reactions to this antibiotic. So more Americans than we realize are allergic to bactrim and similar drugs.
Why is this medication still on the market? Aren't these drug companies playing with people's lives?
Post your comments