Face swells when I take Diphenhydramine HCI (Benadryl/Tylenol Allergy). Allergy!
Question: Has happened twice - once as a kid, took benadryl for spider bite on my leg - face became swollen. Happened last weekend (15 years later) when I took Tylenol Severe Allergy for sneezing, runny nose/eyes.. Didn't realize it had same ingredient as Benadryl. People say its impossible to be allergic to an antihistamine. BUT MY FACE SWELLS! I also have allergies to penicillin, aspirin and chocolate. I have dermographism (get big red whelps if I get scratched). I get huge whelps from flea, mosquito or ant bites. Two weekends ago I got 3 fire ant bites on my foot and spent the whole day with hives all over my body - should have gone to ER but didn't - even had tight throat and chest pains. Something isn't right, but what? (Going to the doctor tomorrow to get a referral to whatever kind of doctor treats this.) In the past doctors have just said they don't know what's wrong with me.
Answers:
Well it is definitely possible to be allergic to just about any medication. Not too many people are allergic to the actual medication (Diphenhydramine HCL) in Benadryl.but they are out there. Check out this website. http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/12633/allergic_to_antihistamines_my_story.html
That being said, a LOT of people are allergic to the dye they put in Benadryl..which is why they have a dye-free version of at least the children's liquid.
It sounds like you did the right thing, seeing your doctor for a referral to an allergist. They'll hopefully do some tests, and be able to figure out what's wrong.
Good luck!
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