What to Do If You Have an Allergic Reaction to the Covid-19 Vaccine

As more Americans receive vaccination for Covid-19, more information and data become available regarding reactions to the vaccine. The standard protocol after administering the vaccine is that patients must wait fifteen minutes at the vaccination site to assess whether an allergic reaction is present. However, there is a chance that an allergic reaction may take place in some patients outside this 15-minute window and away from the vaccination site. If this happens, patients are advised to seek medical attention immediately at Memorial Village ER.

When to Go to the Emergency Room

There are some expected side-effects and reactions to the Covid-19 vaccine that may result in discomfort for patients but are not critical or life-threatening. However, any symptoms that indicate a strong allergic reaction to the vaccine, or anaphylaxis, should be addressed immediately by medical professionals in an emergency room. Anaphylaxis is a severe allergic reaction that can result in life-threatening circumstances.

Here are common symptoms of anaphylaxis:

• Low blood pressure
• Constricted airways, including swollen tongue or throat, causing wheezing and labored breathing
• Skin reactions such as hives, itching, flushing, or becoming pale
• Pulse that is weak or rapid
• Dizziness or fainting
• Nausea or vomiting

The sudden onset of these symptoms indicates an adverse reaction in the body, which requires medical intervention. Any delay in treatment may result in serious complications that could be fatal.

Treatment for Anaphylaxis

Anaphylaxis can cause patients to go into shock due to a release of chemicals that cause the blood pressure to drop and difficulty breathing due to narrowing and blocked airways. This requires immediate medical treatment with epinephrine injection and a visit to an emergency room. If epinephrine is not available, it’s crucial to get the patient to an emergency room immediately to avoid a fatal outcome.

Anaphylaxis can take place as soon as a patient is exposed to an allergen. However, occasionally symptoms don’t present until thirty minutes or longer after exposure. That’s why it’s imperative to be aware of any signs of an allergic reaction after leaving the Covid-19 vaccination site. If any symptoms of allergic reaction arise, patients must get to an emergency room immediately, such as Memorial Village ER.