Anaphylaxis is a severe allergic reaction that can end up being life-threatening if it isn’t treated quickly. The symptoms of anaphylactic shock tend to come on very suddenly and progressively become worse if they aren’t treated right away.

Symptoms of anaphylaxis include:

• Trouble breathing
• Wheezing
• Increased heart rate
• Feeling dizzy or faint
• Sweaty, clammy skin
• Confusion
• Anxiety
• Loss of consciousness
• Dangerous drop in blood pressure
• Hives or a rash

Anaphylaxis Causes and Triggers
Anaphylaxis is caused by being exposed to something you are severely allergic to. Everyone is different when it comes to allergies, but some of the most common irritants are:

• Bee stings
• Peanuts
• Wasp stings
• Shellfish
• Latex
• Some antibiotics
• General anaesthesia

If you know you are at risk of anaphylaxis because of an allergy, it’s recommended you always keep an EpiPen with you since you can’t always avoid irritants. Using an EpiPen right away at the first sign of anaphylaxis is important because the symptoms will progressively get worse without treatment and can become fatal.

Q&A on using an Epipen

1. What is an Epipen?
   EpiPens are autoinjector devices containing a measured dose of adrenaline to treat anaphylaxis. Adrenaline is the first line treatment when anaphylaxis occurs because it quickly opens the airways, stops any swelling, and raises blood pressure.
2. When to use an Epipen?
   EpiPen’s are intended for emergency use for people to use whilst waiting for medical help to come during an anaphylactic reaction. Use your Epipen if you have come into contact with your allergen and start to experience symptoms of anaphylaxis.
3. How to use an EpiPen?
   Use your Epipen prior to calling emergency services. Remove the blue safety cap then stick the epipen into your outer thigh. This action will release the needle and a dose of adrenaline. Keep the Epipen in place for 3 seconds before removing it.
4. How do I store my EpiPen?
   EpiPens can be damaged by high and low temperatures as well as by light. Keep your epipen in its outer carton to protect it from light exposure and never refrigerate or freeze it.
5. Does an Epipen go through jeans?
   EpiPens will go through all types of clothing, but take care to avoid any zippers, buckles, buttons, or other hardware that may be on your clothing.
6. Can you inject yourself?
   You can inject yourself, but make sure your friends and family also know how to use it in case you have a reaction and are physically unable to inject yourself.
7. Can an EpiPen be used on children?
   EpiPens can be used on children who weigh more than 30kg. For children who weigh 15kg-30kg, you should use the EpiPen Jr.
8. Can you use an expired Epipen?
   There is some research suggesting that expired EpiPens can be relatively effective, however if you notice your EpiPen is out of date, contact your GP or pharmacist to get a new one. Having an EpiPen that isn’t expired is your best bet of getting the fast treatment you need when you experience anaphylaxis.

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