,
8 tweets,
2 min read
Read on Twitter
I've had this conversation many times:
Patient: I'm allergic to benadryl
Why did you take it?
I had hives
What happened?
My hives got worse
This highlights several important reasons why EVERY suspected allergy should be evaluated/questioned with details. Thread⬇️ #FridayThoughts
Patient: I'm allergic to benadryl
Why did you take it?
I had hives
What happened?
My hives got worse
This highlights several important reasons why EVERY suspected allergy should be evaluated/questioned with details. Thread⬇️ #FridayThoughts
Is the suspected trigger a known or common cause of allergic reactions?
(Benadryl is a very rare cause of true allergic reactions)
What were the circumstances surrounding exposure?
If symptoms were already occurring but worsened, this is likely natural part of process
(Benadryl is a very rare cause of true allergic reactions)
What were the circumstances surrounding exposure?
If symptoms were already occurring but worsened, this is likely natural part of process
What are the details surrounding the suspected reaction?
Timing - most allergy occurs within a few hours, not days later
Duration - typically gone within 24 hrs
Symptoms - were they already present? Are they consistent with an allergic reaction,i.e. hives, itching, rash, swelling
Timing - most allergy occurs within a few hours, not days later
Duration - typically gone within 24 hrs
Symptoms - were they already present? Are they consistent with an allergic reaction,i.e. hives, itching, rash, swelling
ALWAYS need to ask about additional exposures since - have you taken/eaten the trigger in any other form and if so, what happened?
Similar common concern: "I'm allergic to milk" But they eat cheese, yogurt, ice cream without problems = not an allergy
Similar common concern: "I'm allergic to milk" But they eat cheese, yogurt, ice cream without problems = not an allergy
This thread highlights some easy ways to determine when allergy is not present but in no way captures all of the many nuances and important details that are part of a proper evaluation.
Bottom line: Many self reported allergies are not true allergies = unnecessary restrictions
Bottom line: Many self reported allergies are not true allergies = unnecessary restrictions
Healthcare providers should never label someone as having an allergy without at least asking multiple important details surrounding the suspected reaction.
If you're not sure: PLEASE refer to an allergist to clarify. It's very difficult to remove 'allergy' label once attached.
If you're not sure: PLEASE refer to an allergist to clarify. It's very difficult to remove 'allergy' label once attached.
Clarification of any suspected allergy is extremely important & can positively impact someone's health care.
Deemed truly allergic - counsel regarding safe options & avoidance; also need to follow over time as may resolve
Not allergic - removes life changing restrictions
Deemed truly allergic - counsel regarding safe options & avoidance; also need to follow over time as may resolve
Not allergic - removes life changing restrictions
Lastly, there are other forms of allergy not captured in this thread.
Many side effects and other adverse events can occur (especially with medications) - also not captured in this thread.
Both GREAT reasons to support proper evaluation of suspected allergies. 👍
Many side effects and other adverse events can occur (especially with medications) - also not captured in this thread.
Both GREAT reasons to support proper evaluation of suspected allergies. 👍
