Critical Warning Signs of Severe Skin Allergies: When to Seek Medical Care

Key Warning Signs to Monitor

Immediate Medical Attention Required

• Difficulty breathing or wheezing
• Swelling of face, lips, or throat
• Severe widespread hives with dizziness
• Rapid pulse or heart palpitations

Urgent Care Needed (Within 24 Hours)

• Blistering of the skin
• Fever above 101°F (38.3°C)
• Skin infection signs (warmth, pus, increasing redness)
• Hives lasting more than 24 hours

Documenting Your Symptoms

Track These Details

1. Time and date of reaction onset
2. Possible triggers or exposures
3. Photos of affected areas
4. List of consumed foods/medications

Prevention Steps

Daily Management

• Identify and avoid known triggers
• Keep antihistamines readily available
• Maintain detailed symptom diary
• Wear medical alert bracelet if prescribed

Emergency Preparedness

• Keep prescribed epinephrine auto-injector accessible
• Share action plan with family/coworkers
• Program emergency numbers in phone
• Keep photos of previous reactions

Follow-up Care

After an Episode

• Schedule follow-up appointment
• Bring symptom documentation
• Discuss prevention strategies
• Consider allergy testing referral