How to Treat an Iodine Allergy
Iodine is used in a variety of health care products. If you have never used iodine before, however, you may not be aware of an allergy to iodine. If you or someone you know displays symptoms of an allergic reaction after using iodine, knowing what to do can avoid a dangerous situation. Symptoms of an allergic reaction can include a rash or hives, difficulty breathing or an itchy feeling through your entire body.
- Contact your doctor immediately if you are having trouble breathing or if you have developed a skin reaction to iodine. Depending on your symptoms, you may need to go in to the doctor's office to be evaluated in person, or you may be directed to seek emergency medical assistance if your symptoms are severe.
- Use over-the-counter topical steroid creams to treat a rash or hives that result from an iodine allergy. If you are having a severe reaction, your doctor may prescribe a topical cream for you to use. Use the cream as directed, and if your reaction gets worse alert your doctor immediately.
- Take over-the-counter antihistamines if the topical creams do not work for your skin reaction. As with the topical creams, if your reaction becomes worse or if your reaction is severe, contact your primary care physician for further evaluation.
- Contact emergency personnel if you are unable to breathe or if you feel as if you might lose consciousness. This indicates a serious reaction and can prove to be fatal if left untreated.
- Let your doctor know before taking or using iodine if you have had reactions to it in the past. This is an indication that you may be allergic to iodine and you should not be exposed to it in the future.