On 22/9, a representative from the Vietnam Sweden Uong Bi Hospital reported a patient admitted to the emergency room experiencing chills, chest tightness, and severe breathing difficulties after taking an unidentified medication. Doctors diagnosed anaphylaxis, suspected to be drug-induced, with the potential for respiratory failure and life-threatening consequences.

The patient received adrenaline and intravenous corticosteroids along with antihistamines. Thanks to prompt intervention, the swelling and rash subsided, and breathing improved. After 48 hours of intensive monitoring, the patient's health stabilized.

Anaphylaxis is a severe allergic reaction that can occur after exposure to medication, food, insect venom, or other agents. This condition can progress rapidly, leading to respiratory failure or anaphylactic shock, posing a life-threatening risk if not treated promptly.

This case highlights the dangers of self-medicating without consulting a doctor. The hospital has recorded numerous cases of hospitalization due to anaphylaxis related to self-purchasing and using medication at home. Common culprits include antibiotics, pain relievers, fever reducers, and herbal remedies of unknown origin.

If any unusual symptoms appear after taking medication, especially signs of suspected anaphylaxis, patients should immediately go to the nearest medical facility for prompt treatment. If someone has experienced anaphylaxis with a particular medication, they should never use it again, as subsequent reactions are often more severe.

Common anaphylaxis symptoms include rash, hives, swelling of the lips, tongue, and eyes; difficulty breathing, wheezing, laryngeal spasm; low blood pressure, dizziness, fainting; nausea, abdominal pain, diarrhea; anxiety, and altered mental status.

Thuy Quynh