From the other side of things; it's damned scary when my own body starts reacting and there's nothing I can do to stop it
By the time I feel my heart fluttering like a bird trapped in my chest I reckon I need help; now! The bite on my throat that threatened my breathing though.....that was most unpleasant
I'm very glad, and grateful, that people take the time and trouble to suss out how to, why to, and when to, help, when either I can't, or someone else can't help themselves, either.
Mine is simply labelled, in the manufacturer's box...EpiPen, Auto-Injector 0.3mg, Adrenaline (Epinephrine) Solution for injection for intramuscular use. Delivers one sinle dose (0.3ml) of 0.3mg Adrenaline (Epinephrine). Injects medicine for Allergic Emergencies (Anaphylaxis)
This is my third one so it's not a new-new development, iimmc.
I live near water, lots of water, clegs are commonplace at some times of year. I do get bitten, I do react, but the antihistamines have so far been incredibly effective.
Don't underestimate a simple across the counter solution. I do find the effect is better with anti inflammatory (ibuprofen, again commonly available) too though.
I wouldn't risk foreign travel or camp without the EpiPen. My family and friends know I *always* have anti histamines with me, (spy capsule on my keyring, among other places) and those closest to me have all been shown the pen and given the instructions to read.
This wasn't just for my sake, but it helped reassure them too; that they knew what to do should there be an issue I couldn't deal with. Not fair to leave them worrying.
It's a bit of bu88er, but it's life; sod's law and all that.
The *really* scary bit is how many children are allergic to so many things nowadays
not just someone like me who's been bitten so often that my body sees it coming now and over reacts.
cheers,
M