If you experienced a reaction after taking Ceclor (cefaclor) or amoxicillin, determining whether it was a true allergy or a side effect is crucial for future treatment. A true allergy triggers your immune system, while a side effect is a less severe reaction.
Here’s how to tell the difference:
- Severity: Allergic reactions are often severe, potentially life-threatening. They may involve hives, swelling (angioedema), difficulty breathing, or anaphylaxis. Side effects are usually milder, such as nausea, diarrhea, or a rash that’s not severe. Timing: Allergic reactions happen quickly, often within minutes to hours of taking the medication. Side effects might appear later or more gradually. Symptoms: Allergic reactions involve symptoms that affect multiple body systems. Side effects usually impact one or a few systems. Past Experiences: Have you had similar reactions to penicillin-type antibiotics before? A history of similar reactions strongly suggests an allergy.
Consider these specific examples:
True allergy: You take amoxicillin and develop hives, swelling of your face and throat, and difficulty breathing within an hour. This necessitates immediate medical attention. Side effect: You take Ceclor and experience mild diarrhea for a day or two. This is a common side effect, and the medication can likely be continued unless the diarrhea worsens.
Important Note: Only a doctor can definitively diagnose an allergy. If you suspect an allergic reaction, seek immediate medical attention. Do not self-diagnose.
To prevent future reactions, clearly communicate your past experiences with antibiotics to your doctor before starting a new course of treatment.
