story time

So, you all know that I am allergic to everything (except food---thank goodness!). Despite the annoyance of runny nose, itchy eyes, sneezing and itchy skin all the time, they have never posed actual danger to me until now. This week I had my first experience with an epi-pen. Didn't think I'd ever have to use one but there's a first for everything. I've been doing allergy shots for the last 4 months and progressing fine. That day, was just the same, but two hours later, right in the middle of work, I start getting hives all over my body, start feeling horrible and my throat was getting swollen. (the patient I was teaching was oblivious to the fact I was turning bright red in front of her eyes and I didn't get up to look until after our session was done-holy moly! THAT would have been quite the picture) Benedryl wasn't helping at all at this point and it was getting worse. I had to stab my leg with the pen and feel that rush of epinephrine take over. It helped considerably but the after-effects are not pretty. I was shaking so bad I could hardly walk or control my hands for an hour. The ER just watched me to make sure the reaction didn't come back after it wore off. This happened right before my voice recital, too. Bummer, I was looking forward to singing. Thanks to my lovely sister, who had to come babysit me overnight just in case. I was just drained for the next day or two and had all the nurses in my life frequently tell me I looked very pale. Thanks for that. I know I am fragile... but hey, I was proud that I didn't pass out through this! I'm fine now, no worries. Life keeps you guessing!