Woman suffers rare reaction to Ibuprofen - with discharge oozing from eyes

17 April 2024 , 10:47

467     0

The 45-year-old patient took seven days to recover in hospital (Image: Wiley Online Library)

A woman who took ibuprofen suffered a rare severe reaction which caused discharge to ooze from her eyes.

The lady, aged 45, suffered from flu-like symptoms that caused a rough, scale-like texture on her face. Within hours of taking 800mg of the medicine, the patient had endured a rare adverse reaction, which caused her face to swell and left a yellow crust on her lips. Doctors examined her internal organs such as her lungs, and the tests came back normal.

However, they said they detected some concerns with her skin sample. Hospital staff also noticed indications of necrosis, also known as the death of body tissue. She was rushed to Al Nasiriyah Teaching Hospital in Thi Qar, southern Iraq, and was diagnosed with Stevens-Johnson Syndrome. The condition is caused when the immune system over-reacts to a trigger, in this case, a drug.

The woman suffered a severe reaction from the over the counter medicine (Wiley Online Library)

The serious reaction sparks intense levels of inflammation and causes the body to attack its own cells. The 45-year-old was taken to ICU and was administered fluids received an IV drip and was put on a course of antibiotics. She stayed in hospital for seven days until her symptoms decreased.

Medics said it remains unknown whether she has suffered from any long-term effects from the condition, reports Daily Mail. She is said to have no underlying illnesses and didn't drink or smoke, according to the Clinical Case Reports. The medics said: "Ibuprofen... has long been a stalwart in the realm of pain relief and inflammation management.

Aldi's bestselling and 'affordable' fitness equipment event starts today!

Patients can also develop a rash (Wiley Online Library)

However, behind its commonplace presence in medicine cabinets, there lies a potential peril that, though rare, demands our attention and understanding." They continued: "While ibuprofen is generally safe, the rare occurrence of severe reactions such as SJS serves as a reminder that no medication is entirely without risk.

"Middle-aged individuals, like any other age group, should be vigilant about their health, be aware of potential side effects, and consult with healthcare professionals if they experience unexpected symptoms during ibuprofen use."

Monica Charsley