Signs and symptoms of anaphylaxis post-vaccination
Although adverse reactions and serious side-effects are still said to be on the rarer side (which can be treated well if diagnosed well), it's still pertinent that those getting the vaccine remain alert about what to expect, and what to do if they experience something unpleasant or something which has not been classically listed as a side-effect. Anaphylaxis, a serious allergic reaction is also something to be careful of.
READ: Vaccination side-effects which may seem like COVID-19 symptoms
How concerning are adverse reactions post COVID vaccination?
New reports on post-vaccination side-effects by the government panel has established that in India, so far, only 1 death has been reportedly caused by anaphylaxis. The death of the 68-year-old man, who was inoculated in March was classified as a "vaccine product-related reaction".
READ: Are fainting and dizziness common post-vaccination side-effects?
While anaphylaxis can be severely life-threatening and risky for someone who has a prior history of allergy to vaccines, awareness and early detection, in the first few minutes passing vaccination can curb hesitancy, fears and save lives.
We tell you about some of the warning signs and symptoms:
Skin reactions
Skin reactions can seldom be the first sign of an allergic reaction taking place. Extreme redness on the skin, cheeks, flushed appearance, swelling show up the first. People who get a severe reaction may also experience itchy raised bumps or hives on the surface of the skin. This usually happens when the immune system overreacts to an allergen, or in the case of vaccination, an ingredient present in it.
Apart from this, the affected part of the skin may also feel hot to touch and the itching can get intense. Swelling at the point of injection, prickly, big-sized red spots can be expected as well.
Hypotension
Presentation of cardiovascular symptoms, including lightheadedness and low blood pressure (hypotension) can also occur. This is said to be related to a disruption caused in the blood vessel function during the allergic reaction. During anaphylaxis, the chemicals in the bloodstream may widen and lower blood pressure, or cause a spasm. Those with a history/ existing cardiac ailment risk are more vulnerable to the same.
Weak, rapid pulse
A weak, rapid pulse, accompanied by neurological changes could also be fuelled when histamine is released in the bloodstream. Patients can experience symptoms like confusion, profuse headaches, anxiety. Some may also have trouble speaking well. Vision blurriness is also recorded as a symptom of anaphylaxis.
Difficulty breathing, wheezing
When the body is undergoing heavy swelling, the pressure can mount up and cause excess obstruction around the air passage and respiratory channels. Nasal congestion, difficulty breathing, sneezing, coughing, wheezing are all symptoms of the same. If any of these symptoms occur, these should be attended to at the earliest.
Dizziness and fainting
While dizziness and fainting aren't always classified as signs of an allergic reaction to a vaccine, they should be critically looked into if any of the above-listed symptoms occur. Feeling lightheaded, or fainting minutes following vaccination could also happen with hypotension. Some people may also experience a sudden cardiac arrest, doctors warn.
Do remember that these may not always be the first visible signs of the reaction.
Nausea and vomiting
While these symptoms may not be always seen in all cases, anaphylaxis or an extreme allergic reaction can quickly spread to the digestive system and cause symptoms. Warning signs of attention include nausea, diarrhoea, cramps and abdominal pain.
It should be noted that since these aren't classic post-vaccination side-effects, any sign of gastrointestinal disturbance should require attention at once, if you have just got the jab.
Who carries a higher risk?
Not all allergic reactions may be serious in nature, and if detected early, could be treated well under clinical care. This is the reason why people are asked to wait for 30 minutes post vaccination. However, some people might be more at risk of developing adverse reactions and serious allergic reactions from vaccines including:
-Those who have had a prior anaphylactic reaction
-History of asthma and allergies
-Sensitive to one or the other ingredients present in vaccines.
Even so, do remember that the risk threshold is low and people at risk should still get vaccinated to mitigate risks of infection. Remember to inform healthcare officials at the vaccination centre, wait after being vaccinated and stay in touch with your doctor to rule out any problems.