These are the symptoms and measures to take in case of penicillin allergy.

Penicillin is used to treat bacterial infections, including pneumonia, scarlet fever and ear infections. Discovered by Scottish scientist Alexander Fleming in 1928, penicillin is believed to have saved an estimated 200 million lives since it first came into use as a medicine in 1942.

Despite its widespread use, many people believe they are allergic to penicillin. According to the American Academy of Asthma and Allergy Immunology (AAAAI), about one in 10 patients believe they have a penicillin allergy.

But how common is it for someone to have a penicillin allergy and what are the symptoms?

Symptoms of a penicillin allergy usually appear about an hour after taking it. It is very common for side effects of antibiotics to be mistaken for allergic reactions. However, if you are not sure whether you are experiencing an allergic reaction to penicillin or not, there are certain signs to look for.

Mild symptoms of a penicillin allergy may include the development of a skin rash, itching, runny nose, shortness of breath, and watery eyes. In rare cases, a person with a penicillin allergy may also experience anaphylaxis. Anaphylaxis is a severe allergic reaction that can come on very quickly.

Symptoms of a severe allergic reaction can include swelling in the throat or mouth, a change in a person's heart rate, abdominal pain, and loss of consciousness. 

If a person is suffering from anaphylaxis, they will require immediate medical attention. The easiest solution to treating the allergy is to avoid the antibiotic altogether.

However, if you have taken the medication and are suffering from an allergic reaction, then your doctor may prescribe an antihistamine to counteract the effects. If a person has a severe reaction, immediate medical attention is needed.