Breathing Issues and Medication Allergies: ENT Consultation Guide

Respiratory and Medication Consultation

1.
When lying flat, if you feel pressure on the back of your head and experience difficulty breathing with a sense of constriction, what kind of examination should be done?
2.
After visiting a doctor for a sore throat and taking the prescribed medication, swelling of the eyelids and lips appeared on the third day.
Which of the following medications could potentially cause an allergic reaction?
1.
VOREN 50mg (DICLOFENAC SODIUM)
2.
TNYH (OXATHAZAUNE)
3.
UNIFRADINE 500mg (CEPHRADINE)
4.
LYSOZYME (MILISHER)
The original physician mentioned that these medications were taken in previous years, and he is uncertain which one might have caused the allergy.
What should I do? Please advise, thank you.

Wang, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/06/13

Dr. Li Jiaxuan reply Otolaryngology

1.
Please first visit the otolaryngology outpatient clinic for a physical examination.
If necessary, a sleep study may be conducted.
If it is determined that the issue is not related to otolaryngology, you will be referred to the appropriate specialty.

2.
These medications should have expired patents, and many pharmaceutical companies produce them.
Sometimes, sensitivity may be caused by the coating of the tablets or capsules.
It is also possible to have an allergy to a specific medication.
If drug allergy is suspected, you can test each medication individually under the supervision of a physician to confirm which medication you are allergic to.
However, this method may trigger an allergic reaction (which should be immediately addressed by a physician) and can be quite uncomfortable.

Reply Date: 2017/06/13

More Info

When dealing with breathing issues and potential medication allergies, it is crucial to approach the situation methodically to ensure proper diagnosis and treatment. Here’s a comprehensive guide to address your concerns.

1. Breathing Difficulties When Lying Flat
If you experience difficulty breathing or a sensation of restriction when lying flat, this could be indicative of several underlying issues. The first step is to consult with a healthcare provider who may recommend specific tests to determine the cause of your symptoms. Here are some potential evaluations:
- Pulmonary Function Tests (PFTs): These tests measure how well your lungs are working and can help identify conditions like asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

- Chest X-ray or CT Scan: Imaging studies can reveal structural abnormalities in the lungs or heart that may contribute to your symptoms.

- Sleep Study (Polysomnography): If your symptoms worsen during sleep, a sleep study can help diagnose conditions like obstructive sleep apnea.

- Allergy Testing: Since you have a history of nasal congestion and throat discomfort, allergy testing may help identify triggers that exacerbate your breathing issues.

2. Allergic Reaction to Medication
Regarding the swelling of your eyelids and lips after taking medication, this could indeed be a sign of an allergic reaction. The medications you listed include:
1. VOREN 50mg (Diclofenac Sodium): This is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that can cause allergic reactions in some individuals, including swelling and hives.

2. TNYH (Oxethazaine): This medication is often used for its local anesthetic properties in treating throat pain. Allergic reactions can occur, though they are less common.

3. UNIFRADINE 500mg (Cephradine): As a cephalosporin antibiotic, it can cause allergic reactions, particularly in individuals with a history of penicillin allergies.

4. LYSOZYME (Milisher): This is generally considered safe, but any medication can potentially cause an allergic reaction.

Given that your physician mentioned you have taken these medications in the past without issues, it is possible that the reaction is due to a cumulative effect or a change in your body’s response. The best course of action is to:
- Discontinue the Suspected Medication: If you suspect a particular drug, stop taking it and consult your healthcare provider immediately.

- Seek Emergency Care: If you experience severe symptoms such as difficulty breathing, swelling of the throat, or hives, seek emergency medical attention.

- Consult an Allergist: An allergist can perform skin tests or blood tests to determine which medication you may be allergic to. This is particularly important if you have a history of multiple allergies.

Conclusion
In summary, your symptoms warrant a thorough evaluation by a healthcare professional. It is essential to communicate all your symptoms and any medications you have taken. If you suspect an allergy, it is crucial to avoid the suspected medication and seek medical advice. Additionally, consider keeping a detailed record of your symptoms and any medications taken, as this can aid your healthcare provider in making an accurate diagnosis.

Always remember that your health is paramount, and proactive communication with your healthcare team is key to managing your symptoms effectively.

Similar Q&A

Understanding Nasal Allergies: Symptoms and Management Tips

The nose has allergies, with one side being congested while the other side is clear for extended periods, sometimes alternating between sides. This does not only occur during sleep; it happens regularly. Sleep is usually deep, and in the morning, there is sometimes a slight runny...

Dr. Ji Zhaoyun reply Otolaryngology
Hello, the primary triggers for allergic rhinitis are related to individual constitution and environmental allergens. If one parent has allergic rhinitis, the likelihood of their children developing the condition increases fourfold. Treatment typically begins with oral medication...

Understanding Breathing Difficulties: Insights for Allergy Sufferers

Hello, Doctor: I would like to ask about my recent symptoms of difficulty breathing, chest tightness, and rapid heartbeat. I have a history of allergic rhinitis and have undergone two nasal laser surgeries at this hospital, but my condition has not improved. Previously, when I wa...

Dr. Ye Dawei reply Otolaryngology
Dear Sir/Madam: Please visit the Department of Otolaryngology for a nasal endoscopy and the Department of Pulmonary Medicine for a pulmonary function test. Dr. Yeh Da-Wei, Head of the Department of Otolaryngology, Hsinchu Hospital.

Understanding Asthma: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment Options

Hello, doctor. I would like to ask if I have asthma. I have had allergic rhinitis for several years. I always sneeze when I wake up in the morning, and sometimes I experience allergies before bed, which leads to poor sleep quality. I often find myself gasping for air, feeling lik...

Dr. Li Huixiong reply Internal Medicine
Whether your allergic rhinitis is a self-diagnosis or a diagnosis made by a physician, individuals with an allergic constitution often experience issues with their nose, skin, and airways, which manifest as allergic rhinitis, atopic dermatitis, and asthma. It is recommended that ...

Managing OSA and Non-Allergic Rhinitis: Treatment Options and Considerations

Hello, doctor. Recently, I have been experiencing significant stress due to work, leading to anxiety and worry. After a period of consultation with a physician, it was determined that my issues may primarily stem from Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) – I have a polysomnography (PSG)...

Dr. Zheng Jueyi reply Otolaryngology
Dear Mr. S, Regarding the symptoms of snoring, it is advisable to wait for the results of the polysomnography (PSG) and have an evaluation by an otolaryngologist before deciding whether surgery is necessary, and if so, which type of surgery would be most appropriate. As for alle...