Epipens in schools

 I was talking to friends last night who both work in public schools. I was asking them what they think about having a "stock Epi pen" in every school? I know that many states are now working with legislators to make it mandatory to have stock Epi Pen in every school. This would allow school staff to inject ANY student having an allergic reaction with the Epi Pen.

Why is this important?

Did you know that some students can have an allergic reaction for the first time at school? 

We were shocked when Son #2 had an allergic reaction for the first time. He ate something that had tree nuts in it, and his throat started itching and he was having a hard time breathing. It's scary to watch!! A visit to the doctor and a skin test revealed that he did indeed have an allergy to tree nuts. He now carries an Epi pen with him EVERYWHERE he goes!

So, why do some people have a reaction like that? Here's what Mayo Clinic says:

"When you have a food allergy, your immune system mistakenly identifies a specific food or a substance in food as something harmful. Your immune system triggers cells to release antibodies known as immunoglobulin E (IgE) antibodies to neutralize the culprit food or food substance (the allergen). The next time you eat even the smallest amount of that food, the IgE antibodies sense it and signal your immune system to release a chemical called histamine, as well as other chemicals, into your bloodstream.

These chemicals cause a range of allergy signs and symptoms. They are responsible for causing allergic responses that include dripping nose, itchy eyes, dry throat, rashes and hives, nausea, diarrhea, labored breathing, and even anaphylactic shock."

According to the American College of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology, (ACAAI) 1 in 13 kids will have a food allergy. Ask if your school has stock Epi Pens- let's hope your child never needs one. But I didn't think my child would ever need one either....

Here are anaphylaxis symptoms from ACAAI:

skin: hives, itching, rash, swelling of the lips, tongue, face

digestive tract: nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain

respiratory: wheezing, congestion, shortness of breath, difficulty breathing due to swelling of the throat

cardiovascular: drop in blood pressure, causing dizziness, lightheadedness

If it you see any of these, call 911. It is a medical emergency!!!!

Carry on. And carry an EPI Pen!!!!