Loving My Pain Free Life
About Me
Loving My Pain Free Life

My name is Melinda Johnson and I suffered with foot pain for many years. I went to see a podiatrist and after an examination, I was told that I had heel spur syndrome. I followed the recommendations of my doctor by doing at home treatments along with physical therapy. I was amazed at how much these treatments helped my foot pain. Living with pain can have a big impact on your life and that's why I started this blog. My foot pain kept me from doing many things that I enjoy and I want to help others who are going through the same situation. As you browse through my blog, you'll learn about home treatments, medical procedures and new advancements in medicine that can help reduce pain. It is my hope that by writing this blog, you can live pain free too.

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Loving My Pain Free Life

Is Benadryl A Good Substitute For An Epi-Pen Injection After A Bee Sting?

Claire Roberts

When someone has a severe allergy to bee stings, an unfortunate run-in with one of these insects can result in the person suffering from the sudden onset of life-threatening symptoms such as the inability to breathe. The best treatment for this type of reaction—called anaphylaxis—is to administer epinephrine. Sometimes, though, the victim won't have an Epi-Pen available and loved ones may try to use other allergy medications like Benadryl as a substitute. Here's why that's not a good idea.

Anaphylaxis Requires Fast-Acting Medication

Benadryl is very effective at reducing the symptoms of certain allergies. However, it should never be used as a first-line treatment for someone in anaphylaxis. First, the medication is not strong enough to deal with severe allergic reactions, so the relief the person may receive from taking it may be mild at best.

Second, the medication works through the system too slowly to be of any use. People in anaphylaxis need medicine that will take effect immediately. Since Benadryl must be ingested through the mouth rather than taken as an injection, it must work its way through the digestive system and bloodstream to alleviate the symptoms of the allergic reaction. By the time the medication takes effect, it may be too late.

Lastly, antihistamines like Benadryl can actually mask the symptoms of anaphylaxis, causing a delay in appropriate treatment. When the victim finally reaches the hospital, his or her symptoms may not seem as severe any more, which can affect how quickly medical professionals attend to the person.

Helping Someone in Anaphylaxis

The best thing you can do for someone is anaphylaxis who doesn't have an Epi-Pen is to call emergency services immediately and then take steps to remove anything that could make the allergic reaction worse. For instance, loosen the person's clothing to avoid further restricting his or her breathing. Remove rings, necklaces, and other jewelry that may cut off blood flow to an area if the person begins suffering from severe swelling.

Do not give the person anything to eat or drink and turn the individual to his or her side if it appears the individual is about to vomit. If the person stops breathing, begin performing CPR until the paramedics arrive.

If the reason your loved one doesn't have an Epi-Pen is because he or she can't afford the cost, make an appointment with a medical professional right away. The healthcare provider may have some ideas on how to get this important medication for less cost. For more information about dealing with a bee sting allergic reaction or available treatment options, contact your family doctor.


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