Final answer:
The allergic reactions to cephalosporins include rash and itching, swelling of facial areas, and difficulty breathing or swallowing, with the potential for severe reactions like anaphylaxis.
Step-by-step explanation:
Allergic reactions to cephalosporins, a class of antibiotics related to penicillin, can vary in severity. The correct answer to the question regarding what the allergic reactions to cephalosporins are is 4) All of the above, which includes:
- Rash and itching
- Swelling of the face, lips, or tongue
- Difficulty breathing or swallowing
These symptoms can range from mild reactions, such as skin rash and itching, to severe and potentially life-threatening conditions like
anaphylaxis
which includes systemic reactions with a drop in blood pressure, severe swelling, and difficulty breathing that can lead to shock. Immediate medical attention is necessary if symptoms of anaphylaxis occur. Those with allergies may carry an epinephrine autoinjector to quickly address severe reactions.