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Save a Life: Helping others during an allergic reaction

Many people suffer from allergies, whether it is to peanuts or fish. There are steps everyone can take when someone is having an allergic reaction. An allergist...

Many people suffer from allergies, whether it is to peanuts or fish.

There are steps everyone can take when someone is having an allergic reaction. An allergist-immunologist says the first thing a person should do is look for an epipen and then use it on the person.

"It's a really sharp needle, it hurts when you inject it, but it saves your life," Dr. Jason Caldwell said.

The doctor says that if someone never use an epipen, there is no need to be afraid. They say to stay calm and remember to hold it into the leg for a full 10 seconds.

The epipen injects epinephrine into the blood stream.  It reverses the symptoms of anaphalactic shock, from swellings to vomiting.

Professionals say acting quickly and following the right steps can help save a life. They also mention that if someone uses an epipen on someone who does not need it, it will not hurt them.

As always, if there is a medical emergency, call 911 first.

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