Epi-Pen

[labyris]

How many of you out there have used an Epi-Pen to stave off or treat anaphylatic shock resulting from an allergy to food or insects, etc.? I have allergic reactions to bee stings. Today I was stung by a bee but instead of using my expired Epi-Pen, I treated myself with ice, benadryl, advil, and cortisone cream. I am still monitoring my symptoms to

Comments

[manifestress]

It doesn't hurt that much.

And an expired one still will probably work. Have you kept it in the fridge?

[liveonearth]

It will be very obvious if you need the epi pen. It won't matter either, that it hurts a bit, because without it you will die within minutes of asphyxiation. Just carry it, and train up anyone who is around you in places where the sting risk is present.

I have not given the shot but I have been present to see it done in a real case of anaphylaxis, and I have given practice injections to myself and others. It's not a big needle or a particularly difficult shot to give. You will do it if you must. No problem.

[liveonearth]

I forgot to say this: If you don't react within 10 minutes of a sting, the reaction is unlikely to be life threatening even if it does occur. It's the fast reactions that are dramatic and dangerous.