Ladies, always remember that an allergic reaction is NEVER THE SAME TWICE. Just because you got hives the first time, or mild swelling, doesn't mean it will be the same the next time around.
I had an accidental exposure yesterday to a substance that has caused moderate reactions in the past and nearly died yesterday morning. Within fifteen minutes my face and lips swelled up, my body turned deep red and burned like I was on fire, and I blacked out several times. I was barely lucid enough to call 911 and spent six hours in the hospital emergency department. My blood pressure dropped to 70/35 and they had a hard time getting it back up. My hands swelled up to the point my fingertips turned deep purple and my nail beds were dusky. I was given adrenaline, IV steroids and god knows what else. (P.S. IV steroids hurt like a BITCH.) J was so worried he left a business meeting and forced them to transfer his call to me.
PLEASE, PLEASE, PLEASE be VIGILANT and KNOWLEDGEABLE about your allergies and reactions. DO NOT for example, eat something you think will just give you a few hives and medicate it with Benedryl. I know from now on I will not be allowing this substance in my household AT ALL, and will be getting a medic alert bracelet. Allergies can change at the drop of a hat as we age!
Be well everyone, and learn from my mistake!



Reply With Quote


Bookmarks