I have experienced sever anaphylactic shock and allergic reactions after having taken erythromycin for about a week two years ago. I have experienced irregularly beating heart, extreme fatigue, muscle weakness, depression, anxiety, difficulty breathing, etc.
I still experience these symptoms and would like to recover from them.
How do I get back to “normal”? I’m sick and tired of being tired all the time.
Also, what other antibiotics should I avoid (other than erythromycin)?
Thanks for your help.
You really need to go to an allergist–now! Explain what happened and your ongoing problems. He or she will give you a list of medications to avoid and may do more allergy tests to make sure this doesn’t happen again. He or she may also give you an prescription for an Epi-pen so if it does happen again, you can administer the live-saving treatment before the EMT’s arrive to help.
Your breathing problems might be related to asthma or another undiagnosed problem. The allergist can also help with this.
If your anxiety goes on, consider going to a mental health professional (see below) who can help. You may be experiencing post-traumatic stress.
Some things that might help you feel less anxious:
- stop all caffeine and other stimulants
- see a therapist and talk about your experience–it was traumatic and you need to talk it through to get rid of the leftover fear and anxiousness
- talk to your family and friends about how you’re feeling
- avoid eating chicken or meats that were raised using antibiotics (traces can remain in the meat and cause less severe reactions)
Good luck to you!