What is an Aspirin Sensitivity?

An aspirin sensitivity or allergy, or a reaction to NSAIDs, can cause symptoms that range from mild to severe. Reactions occur within minutes to hours of taking the medication. These reactions may include hives, itchy skin, runny nose, red eyes, swelling of the lips, tongue, or face, coughing or anaphylaxis – a rare, life-threatening allergic reaction.

If you have asthma, nasal polyps, chronic sinusitis or sensitivity to alcohol, you’re more likely to have a reaction to aspirin or NSAIDs. Medicines and desensitization can help.