How dangerous are wasp stings? First aid for them should be based on knowledge of the mechanisms of inflammatory reactions. Many people are afraid of
anaphylactic shock. And they confuse local edema from a wasp sting with a more serious reaction of the body to poison. Let's see what are the differences between these manifestations.
Bee sting (wasp). First aid - how to distinguish a normal reaction from an allergy?
Allergies to such damage occur in three percent of cases. But the local inflammatory reaction to wasp bites absolutely always manifests itself (first aid is the same as with a bee or hornet bite). It develops after poison enters the body. It is he who is responsible for severe severe pain and swelling. The latter only increase during the day. The place where the wasp bites were made (first aid should begin with the removal of the sting if the bee bit), turns red. Body temperature may rise. But more often it rises only locally. But allergies, even the most severe ones, are never accompanied by pain - this is the sign by which one can distinguish between the standard and exaggerated reaction of the body.
The place of the bite should be anointed with a cooling and irritating ointment. If the itching is very strong - take a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug inside. In case of an allergic reaction - take antihistamines and glucocorticoids.
Who is threatened by bites of wasps. First aid
These insects arrange their nests in secluded places. They are very fond of warmth. And therefore, they often nest in dry, sun-heated attics, under sheds, in sheds where there is no dampness. If you find wasps, don't get close to them. They show increased aggression, protecting their home. In other words, a wasp is most dangerous within a radius of a couple of meters from its nest. Bee behavior is more complex. They guard a wider territory - they consider their entire terrain within a radius of several tens of meters around the hive. Experienced beekeepers know that windy weather and pungent odors (perfumes, sweat, alcohol) add to bees' aggressiveness. Also, representatives of different breeds of these insects behave differently. Forest species are more vicious, and mountain species are not so aggressive.
Who is in danger with the bites of wasps and bees?The toxic effect of poison depends on its quantity. Therefore, a single bite is most often not dangerous. But multiple ones can have serious consequences. The attack of a whole flock of bees or wasps sometimes poses a mortal danger. After all, five hundred bites already put the body at risk of toxic damage to the kidneys and heart. What are the signs of intoxication? Weakness, nausea, decreased pressure, chills, depression of consciousness. If such symptoms appear after just one bite, then this is a sign of anaphylactic shock. It is caused by the body's immune response. Bites into the mucous membrane are also dangerous when a bee or wasp accidentally enters the mouth, along with fruit. In this case, swelling increases rapidly and, if measures are not taken, can cause asphyxiation.