I do have 2 epi-pens but always keep one in the night stand and one in my purse. I should carry 2 in my purse at all times? I keep benadryl with me also. Should I be using a special container to keep it at the right temperature. I have just had it thrown in my purse.
I was told by an allergist that we should always keep 2 at home, and 2 with us when we go out. Sometimes, a second dose of epinephrine is needed for a reaction ... you'll see those instructions in the "monitoring" section of the "Food Allergy Action Plan" that Lakeswimr gave you the link to. Epi's should be kept at a certain temperature range ... we often use an insulated bag, but depending on the weather, sometimes I put them in my purse ... people have different ways they handle this issue.
I wonder if I should ask for some type of inhaler??? Accidental exposure to Sunflower and Sesame bring on the wheezing and feeling like I cant catch my breath big time(obviously other symptoms too) Would that be something to help? Would I use it before or after the epi or in lieu of??? I hate to sound stupid but I would rather ask now and know.
These are really important questions, lots of people newly diagnosed get confused with this.
Again, look at the "Food Allergy Action Plan" ... For lung symptoms like wheezing after a suspected allergen ingestion, epinephrine should be used. Inhalers/bronchodilators and antihistamines should NOT be depended upon to treat a severe allergic reaction!
If you do have asthma, then ask your doctor for an "asthma action plan" and medicines. After epinephrine is given for a severe allergic reaction, then after that, inhalers may also be used if your doctor agrees.
I'd suggest discussing the plans with your doctor(s) and get signed actions plans from them. This should probably be done ASAP, maybe give the office a call.
Here is an article that I'd recommend reading:
http://www.aanma.org/pdf/AnaphylaxisGuide.pdf "When Anaphylaxis Looks Like Asthma" Pages 11 - 13
Inhalers won’t stop anaphylaxis, but epinephrine will
stop either an asthma attack or anaphylaxis. So if in doubt,
use epinephrine and cover your bases.
You're the second person recently who posted that their allergist didn't give them an action plan. It always worries me when an allergist doesn't give a patient such a plan.