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Community Corner

Insect Bites and Stings

Learn how to diagnosis and treat insect bites and stings, and when to seek emergency medical attention.

Did you know that the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention keep statistics on all types of health issues? One such health concern is insect bites and stings, which falls into the category of non-fatal injury statistics. Last year, 9.2 million children had an ER visit. The third leading cause for children under the age of nine visiting an ER was due to animal/insect bites and stings.

The most common perpetrator of insect allergy reactions come from the Hymenoptera family. Some familiar members of this family include bees, wasps, hornets, yellow jackets, and fire ants. Insect bites are not usually a problem because they only last one to two days. It is the sting that generally causes more symptoms of discomfort and medical emergencies.

The severity of the sting occurs because the stinger actually contains venom. The venom is an irritating chemical to human tissue. This is why it is important to remove the stinger promptly. The stinger will pump venom into its victim until all the venom is depleted. If one is allergic to venom, then a severe allergic reaction can ensue. Venom can be an allergic trigger causing a spiraling event leading to anaphylaxis in some individuals.

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Signs and symptoms of severe reactions include the following:

1.  Trouble swallowing

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2.  Drooling

3.  Dizziness

4.  Tongue, mouth, and air way swelling

5.  Eye swelling

6.  Wheezing and difficulty breathing

7.  Unconsciousness and collapse

These are emergencies and require immediate attention. Anaphylaxis is the term used for a shut down of body systems leading to tissue/organ death.

Minor reactions to bites and stings involve pain, redness, and swelling at the affected site and lasts from 1 to 2 days. A topical anti-itch can be used such as calamine lotion. Please see a PCP if the redness last longer than 7 days or the symptoms return within a few days after having stopped using medication. OTC pain relievers such as camphor or topical anti-inflammatory medications like Americaine aerosol, dermoplast, and hydrocortisone creams should not be used greater than 7 days. Anti-histamines can be used such a Benadryl but only if itching is present. Pregnant women should not take Benadryl.

Preventive strategies to avoid insects include:

1.  Keep food and drink covered when outdoors

2.  Always wear foot wear

3.  Avoid bright and/or flowered prints and colors

4.  Avoid scented soaps, hairsprays, and perfumes when outside

5.  Use DEET products that are 10-30% in strength. Do not use in children less than 6 months of age

6.  Wear long sleeves and pants when in grassy areas

If you have been stung, here are some tips:

1.  Remove the stinger immediately and scrape the affected area with a clean fingernail or credit card. This will stop further venom from penetrating the skin. Do not squeeze the stinger out because the pressure might cause the venom to further penetrate the skin layers.

2.  If you are allergic, an emergency kit with an epi pen should be available. Epi pens can only be obtained with a prescription from a PCP.

3.  Allergic people who work or play outdoors, should wear protective jewelry that informs others of your condition if you cannot speak for yourself.

 

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