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http://mastcelldisorders.wallack.us/yabb/YaBB.pl General Mast Cell Disorders Discussion >> General Mast Cell Disorder Discussion >> Double Checking about Epinephrine http://mastcelldisorders.wallack.us/yabb/YaBB.pl?num=1297549130 Message started by Joan on 02/12/11 at 10:18:50

Title: Double Checking about Epinephrine
Post by Joan on 02/12/11 at 10:18:50

Am I correct that in the case of a degranulation that epi should be given by EMTs, even if the person doesn't have breathing difficulty, but does have high blood pressure and a rapid heart rate? For example, if the blood pressure is 170/100 and the pulse is 160, will epinephrine bring those back down to normal? Is it definitely important to give the patient epi because high bp and pulse can precede a disastrous drop in both?

Just checking my facts to make sure I don't tell the docs anything incorrect.

Title: Re: Double Checking about Epinephrine
Post by Starflower on 02/12/11 at 11:36:39

My understanding is that the decision should really be made by the doctor... if a patient has an EpiPen, the EMTs should use it. Otherwise, you can't assume epinephrine is safe... it could make the tachycardia worse if it's not mast cell related.

What you're talking about is a "hypertensive variant"... someone who gets high blood pressure when degranulating. In that case, an EpiPen WILL bring their BP back down... and their doctors who don't really know mast cells will freak out :o

Heather

Title: Re: Double Checking about Epinephrine
Post by Riverwn on 02/13/11 at 05:47:37

I am that person who shocks with "Hypertensive Variant". My BP will spike VERY high, then drop to zero within 2 minutes. I would guess that giving the epi would depend on the EMTs understanding of how severe the reaction is at the time...

I dont always use my epi when I shock.. I DO use it when I think the shock is a severe one and Im feeling as if I will lose conciouness. Thats the difference for me.
Hugs,
Ramona