[24F] With itchy hives and red, hot skin
Patient Description
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Arora's Assessment
What might be happening
Based on the information you’ve provided, there are a few serious conditions that could be causing your symptoms:
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Anaphylaxis: This is a severe allergic reaction that can cause hives, swelling, difficulty breathing, and other symptoms. Given that your hives are covering your whole body, including your mouth and throat, and you are experiencing difficulty breathing, this is a medical emergency. Anaphylaxis can be life-threatening and requires immediate treatment.
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Angioedema: This condition involves deeper swelling beneath the skin, often around the eyes and lips, and sometimes the throat. It can be associated with hives and can also cause difficulty breathing if it affects the throat.
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Severe Asthma Exacerbation: Given your history of asthma, it’s possible that your symptoms are related to a severe asthma attack, especially since you are experiencing difficulty breathing. However, the presence of hives and widespread skin involvement suggests that an allergic reaction is more likely.
What you can do
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Seek Immediate Medical Attention: Given the severity of your symptoms, you should seek emergency medical care immediately. Call 911 or have someone drive you to the nearest emergency room. Do not attempt to drive yourself.
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Use Your Epinephrine Auto-Injector: If you have an epinephrine auto-injector (EpiPen), use it immediately as directed. This can help reduce the severity of the allergic reaction and buy you time to get to the hospital.
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Continue Taking Your Medications: Continue taking your prescribed medications, including Benadryl, Prednisone, Pepcid, and Albuterol, as directed by your healthcare provider. These can help manage your symptoms until you receive professional medical care.
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Avoid Known Triggers: Although you mentioned not being exposed to new foods, medications, or environmental factors, try to avoid any known allergens or triggers that could worsen your condition.
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Stay Calm and Monitor Symptoms: While waiting for medical help, try to stay calm and monitor your symptoms. If you notice any worsening of your breathing, increased swelling, or other severe symptoms, inform the emergency responders immediately.
Remember, I am not a doctor, and it is crucial to seek care from real health professionals to receive a formal diagnosis and appropriate treatment. Your symptoms are serious and require immediate medical attention.
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3 mo ago