Very good question... Don't stress... You will know when to use it... the visual cues are very noticeable... one sees the swelling... one hears the person or me oneself talk cause my tongue was swelling.. Yes I have had the time and the appropriate reaction to get to epipen and had courage to inject myself only a few occasions... One's emergency response is prepared to use it... I practiced with injecting an orange with regular syringe to get confidence and get experience to expose myself with the ability to do so if needed... The inexperience was a bigger worry at the beginning... but back in 1980s it was epinephrine syringe injection the actual incident when I needed to use epipen. The epipen is so much easier... I still recommend if possible the assistance of education of syringe use it is a good confidence builder for anyone who Needs to carry epipen...

My experiences have been that my throat and face would swell and breathing would quickly become difficult.

The doctor should explain in detail what to do and when to do it.

I have had similar reactions if in ingredient list had may contain... coconut oil... palm oil... or made in a facility that has nut/peanut product.... Be diligent you are doing the right thing read everything... I stopped trying samples anywhere even refused relatives cooking if they cannot show me product boxes or wrappers and envelop with ingredient list. Safety first... prevention is the best approach...

I made my own epipen carry case with velcro... If anyone would like one I can make them.. Let me know I can explain how to make...

Yes ALWAYS carry epipen.... Don't leave home without it... If possible keep one at home and ONE one the go... Finding a wallet of fanny pack to hold it is a challenge but keep looking you will find a Easy to carry pouch to clip or slide in pocket... where and find clothing with pockets OR fasten velcro in inner coat ...coats or vests.. and on epipen little dark colored pouch... Very easy to transport... remove... and use if needed