Suffering prolonged blindness and a 17-day coma ensued following the intake of ibuprofen for menstrual cramps - I was experiencing intense internal torment.

In a harrowing account, Jaqueline Gmack, now 34, shares her story of Stevens-Johnson Syndrome (SJS), a rare but serious skin reaction that can be life-threatening.

At the age of 18, Jaqueline took ibuprofen to alleviate her period cramps. Little did she know, this seemingly harmless painkiller would trigger a severe allergic reaction, leading to SJS.

Symptoms of SJS include flu-like symptoms, a rash, blisters, and sores on the skin, lips, inside the mouth, and eyes. In Jaqueline's case, these symptoms were devastating. She was placed in a coma for 17 days due to SJS and spent a further 10 days in the hospital after waking up.

The NHS lists several medications most likely to cause SJS, including antiepileptics, allopurinol, sulfonamides, certain antibiotics, and Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen.

Jaqueline has been left with lasting consequences. She has been suffering from corneal perforation since the SJS incident and her right eye will never regain clear vision due to the extensive damage caused by the syndrome. To prevent her eye from leaking, she has undergone two corneal transplants.

Despite these challenges, Jaqueline has steered clear of ibuprofen since her body's extreme reaction to it. She now uses an antispasmodic called Buscopan, which is what her doctor recommends, for menstrual cramps instead of anti-inflammatory painkillers.

It's important to note that the risk of getting SJS is low, even if you're taking a medicine that can cause it. The NHS states that only a small percentage of people who take these medications will develop SJS.

SJS can occur in reactions to various medications, including antibiotics, epilepsy medication, and other anti-inflammatory painkillers. It can also occur in children due to infection, such as a cold or flu.

The painkiller used by millions worldwide is ibuprofen. However, it's crucial to be aware of its risks, especially when it comes to individuals with a history of allergies or sensitivities.

Jaqueline's story serves as a stark reminder of the potential consequences of medication use. She urges everyone to be vigilant and to seek immediate medical attention if they experience any unusual symptoms after taking medication.

Suffering prolonged blindness and a 17-day coma ensued following the intake of ibuprofen for menstrual cramps - I was experiencing intense internal torment.