NSAID Hypersensitivity: Signs, Risks, and What to Do If You React

When your body reacts badly to common pain relievers like ibuprofen or aspirin, it’s not just a side effect—it could be NSAID hypersensitivity, an immune system overreaction to nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs that can trigger serious breathing or skin reactions. Also known as aspirin-exacerbated respiratory disease, this isn’t a typical allergy, but it’s just as dangerous if ignored. People with asthma, chronic nasal polyps, or recurring sinus infections are far more likely to experience this. It’s not rare: up to 1 in 10 adults with asthma react to NSAIDs, and many don’t realize why their symptoms get worse after taking a regular painkiller.

That reaction isn’t just a rash or upset stomach. It can mean sudden wheezing, swelling of the lips or throat, or even anaphylaxis. Some people get severe nasal congestion or asthma attacks within minutes of taking even a small dose. This isn’t about being "sensitive" to the taste—it’s your body treating the drug like a threat. And the problem? Many doctors don’t test for it. You might think you’re just allergic to aspirin, but you could react to naproxen, celecoxib, or even topical gels with the same active ingredient. The key is recognizing the pattern: if your breathing or skin flares up every time you take an NSAID, it’s not coincidence—it’s a signal.

What you can do next matters. First, stop taking all NSAIDs until you confirm the trigger. Keep a simple log: which drug, when you took it, and what happened. Then talk to your doctor about alternatives. Acetaminophen is often safe, but not always—some people with NSAID hypersensitivity react to it too. Paracetamol, antihistamines, or corticosteroids might be options depending on your symptoms. For those with chronic issues, an allergist can do a controlled challenge test to map out exactly which drugs to avoid. This isn’t about fear—it’s about control. Knowing your limits lets you manage pain without risking your airway.

The posts below cover real cases and practical advice from people who’ve lived with this. You’ll find guides on how to swap out risky painkillers, what to do in an emergency, how to explain your condition to pharmacists, and even how certain medications like tricyclic antidepressants or metronidazole can interact with your sensitivity. Some posts talk about nasal congestion from decongestants—something that often overlaps with NSAID hypersensitivity in people with chronic sinus problems. Others explain how to safely switch medications when your current ones start causing trouble. This isn’t theoretical. These are stories from people who’ve been there, and the steps they took to stay safe.