For severe reactions, seek immediate medical attention. If itching and swelling are bothersome, take an oral antihistamine like diphenhydramine (Benadryl) or chlorpheniramine (Chlor-Trimeton). For more pronounced reactions, apply hydrocortisone cream or calamine lotion to reduce itching and swelling. Wash the site with soap and water and apply cold compresses to relieve the pain and swelling. Immediate removal will stop venom from being released. This can be done with a fingernail, the edge of a credit card or tweezers. However, anyone who has ever been stung by one of these creatures will usually think otherwise! After being stung, it is important to immediately remove the stinger and venom sac if they are present at the sting site. Stingingīees, wasps, hornets, fire ants and scorpions that inject venom from the tip of their abdomen are sometimes considered beneficial because of their importance in pollination or because they prey on other pest insects. People concerned about experiencing severe reactions to stings should consider the need to carry an allergy first-aid kit with them when afield. People who develop more than just the normal symptoms from a single sting should see their physician about the need to be desensitized. In a few people, the immune system reacts severely and within minutes after receiving a sting they may develop: (a) nausea and constriction in the chest (b) difficulty breathing and swallowing (c) a drop in blood pressure (d) blue color in the skin (due to lack of oxygen) and, in extreme cases, (e) unconsciousness or death. Swelling may involve an entire arm or leg, last several days or require hospital treatment.Ī third type of reaction is called anaphylactic shock. Some people can develop more serious reactions. The discomfort may last only an hour or two or for one or more days. These insects typically cause the most problems when they perceive their nest is threatened.įor most people, a single sting will cause pain, swelling, and stiffness (if the sting was in a joint). Bees and wasps that live in colonies can attack in large numbers, potentially exposing victims to dangerous amounts of venom. This venom usually produces a painful reaction in people. In addition to the saliva, insects and scorpions that sting and spiders that bite often inject venom, which is used to subdue prey or protect themselves. Your body's reaction to the components of the saliva causes the itching, redness, and swelling that is associated with these bites. When insects, mites, and ticks bite, they often inject saliva to digest the tissue and aid in the feeding process.
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