Severe Allergic Skin Reactions

Distinguishing localized allergy from progressing emergencies

Step by Step

Widespread hives together with swelling of the lips, tongue, or throat, difficulty breathing, or feeling faint may be anaphylaxis: call emergency services and use an adrenaline (epinephrine) autoinjector if the person has one; antihistamines alone are not enough. Hives or itching on their own, without other symptoms, are usually less serious, but the person should be watched closely and seek medical advice. Seek urgent medical help for swelling that is spreading or affecting the voice, rapidly spreading redness, blistering, peeling skin, or sores in the mouth, eyes, or genitals, which can signal rare but serious drug reactions. Photographs can help track a rash.