Beesting

An insect will sting, by injecting venom through a stinger into the victim, because it perceives a danger and is trying to protect itself. Aside from bees, other insects such as hornets, wasps, spiders and yellowjackets can also sting.

Signs: acute pain, swelling, redness and heat around the area where a person has been stung. If allergic to the insect venom, a person may have difficulty swallowing, laboured breathing, weakness, hoarseness, confusion and severe swelling. If highly allergic a person may go into anaphylactic shock and have difficulty breathing and systemic swelling and hives.

Who to consult: If a person is in anaphylactic shock, they should be immediately admitted to hospital. For minor stings, consult a GP, immunologist, homoeopath, naturopath, pharmacist.

Tags: insect, venom, danger, protection, bee, wasp, spider, pain, swelling, anaphylaxis