The Covid-19 vaccination was developed in a record time, and so, its long-term effects are yet to be determined. Even today, those who are finally getting the much-needed shot are asked to vary of possible reactions that include body pain, fever, rashes and more.
However, some patients have complained about a serious Covid 19 vaccine allergic reaction and side-effect.
While such cases are few in numbers, they do need to be taken seriously, as scientists are yet to determine what exactly triggers the reaction and how can you curb it beforehand.
For those who yet to get their first or even the second dose of the vaccine, you will need to know about Anaphylaxis. What is it? How does it affect your body? How can you identify and what you should you? We answer all your concerns below.
What Is Anaphylaxis?
When people with severe allergies are exposed to their allergen, it can result in a life-threatening reaction known as anaphylaxis. This can be triggered by venom, food or medication like a bee sting, peanuts or tree nuts, and in this case, the Covid-19 vaccine.
Anaphylaxis can cause a series of symptoms including rashes, low pulse, and even an anaphylactic shock. When not treated in time, this can be fatal for the victim.
What Are The Symptoms Related To Anaphylaxis?
For someone who’s never had a severe allergic reaction, they may not have the knowledge on how to deal with anaphylaxis. In this case, time is sensitive and every second matters.
That’s why it’s important to know about how life-threatening anaphylaxis can be before you take the vaccine. Here are the symptoms related to anaphylaxis that you need to watch out for.
1. Skin Reaction
This is the first sign that your body is not agreeing with what’s gone in. It triggers an allergic reaction that causes redness on the skin, flushed appearance, and swelling. People with severe reactions also complain of hives on the surface of the skin. These raised bumps feel itchy and can occur anywhere on the body (refer image above).
2. Burning Skin
You may also feel the skin burn in that area or feel too hot to touch. If not controlled, swelling can turn into prickly big red spots. In extreme cases, the swelling can curb air and food pipe, which can cause suffocation. You will immediately need to call the paramedics in such a case.
3. Hypotension
In case of a severe Covid 19 vaccine allergic reaction, you could feel lightheadedness and low blood pressure or hypotension. This is caused due to a disruption in the blood vessel function by the allergic reaction. During anaphylaxis, the chemicals in the bloodstream may widen and lower the blood pressure and cause a spasm. Patients with a history of heart ailments are at a higher risk of such a reaction.
4. Weak Pulse
A severe reaction can also cause neurological changes fuelled by histamine in the bloodstream. Patients have complained of confusion, strong headaches, and even anxiety. Your vision may blur as well, and you can have trouble speaking.
5. Dizziness
While fainting and dizziness aren’t exactly termed as Covid 19 vaccine allergic reaction, it can be a symptom of anaphylaxis. This particularly stands true if it happens after taking the jab.
Patients feel lightheaded and may faint just minutes after taking the vaccine. Doctors also warn of some patients experiencing a sudden cardiac arrest. However, the reported cases of such incidents are extremely few.
Who Is At Risk Of An Anaphylactic Reaction?
Other warning signs of an anaphylactic reaction include nausea, diarrhoea, cramps and abdominal pain. This is triggered by the reaction spreading to the digestive system.
That said, some people might be more at risk of developing adverse reactions and serious allergic reactions from vaccines including:
- Those who’ve had a prior anaphylactic reaction
- Asthma patients
- People sensitive to certain ingredients present in the vaccine
What Can You Do About Severe Covid 19 Allergic Reaction?
Not every allergic reaction is serious but it can be treated early if it's identified in time. In case of a severe reaction, it will be best to take the patient to the hospital first or administer the medication epinephrine using an EpiPen injection.
Patients who’ve anaphylactic reactions before are likely to carry an EpiPen in their bags. If you aren’t already, please start doing so. Meanwhile, for others who’ve not had allergic reactions before, it’s best to sit in the hospital premises for some time to make sure your body does not show any symptoms.
Doctors advise sitting for at least 30 minutes in the hospital after taking the jab.
Do remember, despite the one-off cases of severe reactions, the Covid 19 vaccine is safe for all and has been approved by the Health Sciences Authority (HSA) for Singaporeans. Those still in doubt about taking the vaccine? Remember, the earlier we all get vaccinated, the faster our lives will go back to (new) normal.
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