Allergic reaction treatment in Bang Tao
Hives spreading across the chest after a seafood dinner, lips beginning to feel thick, or an itchy rash after a new sunscreen. Most allergic reactions here are unpleasant and self-limiting. A small number progress to anaphylaxis, which is life-threatening within minutes. Allergic reaction treatment in Bang Tao covers both, and the difference between them is worth knowing now rather than later.
When it is an emergency
Call 1669 immediately, and use an adrenaline auto-injector if you have one, for any of these:
- Difficulty breathing, wheezing or a tight throat
- Swelling of the tongue, lips or throat
- Difficulty swallowing, or a hoarse voice
- Feeling faint, collapsing, or going pale and clammy
- A rapidly spreading rash together with any of the above
- A sense of impending doom, which patients describe surprisingly consistently
Anaphylaxis kills through airway swelling and a collapse in blood pressure. Adrenaline is the treatment and antihistamines are not — do not reach for tablets and wait to see. If you have an auto-injector, use it into the outer thigh and call for help.
Common triggers in Phuket
Seafood is the leading one, and shellfish allergy frequently appears for the first time in adulthood. Peanuts and tree nuts are widely used in Thai cooking, often in sauces where they are not obvious, and cross-contamination in busy kitchens is common.
Other regular causes are insect stings, new medication including antibiotics started for a holiday illness, latex, sunscreens and cosmetics, and the strong topical anaesthetic sprays sold for sunburn and bites.
Eating with a food allergy in Thailand
Say it in Thai, written down. A card stating your allergy in Thai script is far more reliable than explaining in English to a busy kitchen, and most hotels will write one for you.
Fish sauce is in a great many Thai dishes, including ones that seem vegetarian. Peanuts appear in sauces, curries and garnishes. Shrimp paste is a base in many curry pastes. If your allergy is severe, carry two adrenaline auto-injectors, keep them with you rather than in the room safe, and check the expiry date before you travel — heat degrades adrenaline, so do not leave them in direct sun or in a car.
Treating a mild to moderate reaction
Hives and itching without any breathing or swallowing difficulty are treated with antihistamines, sometimes with a short course of steroids for a more extensive rash. Cool compresses help, and the trigger should be avoided completely until it is identified.
Reactions can be biphasic — settling and then returning some hours later. Anyone who has had a significant reaction is observed for a period rather than sent straight back to the hotel, and given clear instructions about what to do if symptoms return overnight. See also skin rash.
After a serious reaction
If you have had anaphylaxis, you need an adrenaline auto-injector for the rest of the trip and referral for allergy testing when you get home. Do not assume the next reaction will be as mild as the last one — severity varies and previous reactions do not predict future ones.
We can supply antihistamines and steroids, and provide a written report for your own doctor. Availability of auto-injectors in Thailand is limited and cannot be guaranteed, which is a strong argument for bringing your own from home if you have a known allergy.
Frequently asked questions
How much does treatment cost?
A consultation with antihistamines is inexpensive. Injections, steroids and a period of observation cost more, and emergency treatment is charged by what is actually used.
Can I buy an adrenaline auto-injector here?
Availability is limited and inconsistent in Thailand. If you have a known severe allergy, bring two from home and keep them with you.
Can a doctor come to my hotel?
Yes for mild and moderate reactions on a doctor hotel visit. For any breathing difficulty or swelling of the throat, call 1669 — do not wait for a doctor to travel to you.
How long do hives last?
Individual welts usually fade within 24 hours, though new ones can keep appearing for several days. Antihistamines taken regularly rather than occasionally work best.
Is it safe to fly after a reaction?
After a mild reaction, usually yes. After anaphylaxis, be assessed first and carry auto-injectors in your hand luggage with a letter explaining why.
Come in, or we come to you
Take Care Medical Clinic Bang Tao is open open 24 hours, 7 days a week on Bandon Road in Cherng Talay, a few minutes from Bang Tao Beach and Laguna Phuket. Walk in without an appointment, call +66 81 718 9080, or message us on WhatsApp. If you would rather not move, ask for a doctor hotel visit and we will come to your room.