Title: Sulfa allergies: Overview and what to avoid
Headings: What to know about sulfa allergies
What to know about sulfa allergies
Symptoms
Medications that contain sulfa
Medications to avoid
Sulfa vs. sulfite allergy
Complications
Anaphylaxis
Stevens-Johnson syndrome
Treatment
Outlook

Content: The most dangerous is anaphylaxis or Stevens-Johnson syndrome. Anaphylaxis
Anaphylaxis is a potentially life-threatening allergic reaction. Those at higher risk of experiencing such a reaction include people with: a family history of anaphylaxis
other allergies
asthma
Symptoms of anaphylaxis include: an itchy red rash alongside hives or welts
swelling of the throat
swelling elsewhere in the body, such as the eyelids and mouth
difficulty breathing
coughing
trouble swallowing
tightness in the chest
difficulty swallowing
vomiting and diarrhea
stomach cramps
paleness
light-headedness
Stevens-Johnson syndrome
Stevens-Johnson syndrome is another rare but severe form of a sulfa allergy, which affects a person’s skin, mucous membrane, genitals, and eyes. Symptoms of Stevens-Johnson syndrome include: flu-like symptoms
painful red blisters around the mouth, throat, eyes, or genitals
severe red or purple skin rash
sloughing or shedding of skin
fatigue
diarrhea
nausea and vomiting
fever
Treatment
Treatment for a sulfa allergy depends on what symptoms a person experiences. For hives, a rash, or itching, a doctor may prescribe antihistamines or corticosteroids. If a person experiences any respiratory symptoms, such as wheezing, they may need a drug called a bronchodilator. This helps to widen the air passages between the lungs.