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Reactions or side effects to penicillin are frequently mistaken as an allergic reaction to the drug, but a true allergy involves the immune system. Symptoms of an allergy range from a rash to life-threatening anaphylaxis. The best way to confirm a penicillin allergy is a skin test.
Higher risk groups for developing penicillin allergies are females, those with HIV/AIDS, those with cystic fibrosis, and those with a previous history of allergic reactions to penicillin or other drugs. Meanwhile, for those with HIV/AIDS, this can be considered as a myth for one and truth for the others. The question on getting an STD from oral contact remains open.
Individuals who have previously had a positive skin test for penicillin allergy, hives that appeared quickly after the drug was taken (as opposed to a few hours or days after it was taken), or an anaphylactic reaction to penicillin are more likely to experience an allergic reaction to penicillin. Densensitization treatment, in which small amounts of penicillin help your body become accustomed to the medication, may be recommended.
Interestingly, people are not born with penicillin allergies, but rather develop them after exposure to the drug. Re-exposure can trigger an allergic response.
Preventing an allergy to penicillin entails avoiding the drug and similar antibiotics in general. Of course, some infections require the use of antibiotics, and in this case, allergy skin tests are an important way to discover a sensitivity to penicillin.
Remember that any sign of a penicillin allergy, such as trouble breathing, hives, or other symptoms of anaphylaxis (including shock, low blood pressure, constriction of the airways, flushed or pale skin, dizziness or fainting, and nausea or vomiting and diarrhea) should be taken very seriously and medical help should be sought immediately.