A wasp or bee sting occurs when a wasp or bee is threatened. Their venom carries chemicals that cause intense pain but also proteins to which one can become allergic.
Wasps and bees are insects belonging to the order Hymenoptera, of which more than 200,000 species have been described. The females have modified their egg-laying apparatus, converting it into a stinger that serves as a defense organ. When they are threatened, they stick it in, inoculating the venom they have. This contains chemical substances that irritate and produce intense pain in the affected skin area, but it also contains proteins to which we can become allergic.
Wasp sting allergy
People with a wasp or bee sting allergy may have different reactions after being stung.
- The most common is a large local reaction that may affect all limbs, although these cases are not serious, they are very annoying.
- Less frequently, the allergic person presents a systemic reaction that can range from generalized urticaria, general malaise or severe itching to a serious and life-threatening situation (anaphylaxis, shock, ….).
In our country it is estimated that there are more than 800,000 people allergic to wasp or bee venom. Fatal cases are only between 10 and 20.
Wasp sting, treatment
The allergy to these insects is easily diagnosed with skin tests which, when done by expert hands, are little or not bothersome and without any risk. Once an accurate diagnosis has been made, cases of systemic reactions should be treated with a vaccine of the venom of the insect involved, which today we can say is that after a treatment period of three to five years, it cures the patient.
Wasp sting, home remedies
Home remedies for wasp sting is to apply ice to the area, the best if it is in the field is wet mud, as long as it is a local reaction. Ammonia in this case is of little use. If it is a generalized reaction, in addition to calling 061 or immediately go to the emergency room, the patient should be reassured and adopt a supine position with the legs elevated. Obviously, if adrenaline auto-injectable is available (not very common at home), that would be the first thing to do.