Question

I think I may be sensitive to aspirin. What are the symptoms, and can it be treated?

Answer

Aspirin is a useful drug that's used so widely that it's not surprising that some people are sensitive to it. This sensitivity usually shows up as rhinitis (nasal congestion) and asthma or urticaria (an itchy rash, perhaps with hives). If you have it, a reaction can be induced by aspirin or also by one of the nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprophen or naproxen.
 

Your doctor can diagnose the problem with a challenge test - giving a small dose of aspirin and watching for symptoms to develop. If you develop a cough and wheezing, an itchy rash round the mouth (or elsewhere), itchy watery eyes, and nasal congestion, you probably have aspirin sensitivity. Very rarely a condition known as anaphylaxis can develop; this is an exaggerated response when the symptoms are accompanied by difficulty in breathing and a severe drop in blood pressure. Anaphylaxis is not remotely likely after a simple challenge test.
 

If you do have aspirin sensitivity, you can be desensitized under close medical supervision; this usually involves taking a very small dose of aspirin each day, with the doses gradually increasing over time. In the meantime, you should avoid aspirin (which may sometimes be contained in some over-the-counter medicines, so read the label). You should also avoid other NSAIDs. You can take acetaminophen (Tylenol®) to relieve pain.

Related Links
Aspirin & Allergy Associates of Florida