LIFESTYLE NEWS - Not all bites or stings are the same. Whether you are bitten by an insect, spider, or a snake, you have to take different steps to apply the right first aid and seek proper medical assistance.
Most bites or stings result in a mild reaction to the venom or other protein that the insect injects into you. This can result in redness, minor swelling, pain and itching at the site of the bite or sting.
Some people develop a severe allergic reaction to an insect sting, often from a bee or wasp.
- Abdominal cramps
- Nausea and vomiting
- Swelling of the face, lips or throat
- Hives
- Breathing problems
- Shock
If you or someone you know begins experiencing these symptoms shortly after an insect bite or sting, call emergency services (084 124 / 10177) or get to an emergency room as soon as possible. A severe, whole body allergic reaction is called anaphylaxis. This can be life-threatening if not treated promptly.
auto-injector. It acts quickly on the body to raise your blood pressure, stimulate your heart, and improves swelling and breathing. It should be carried with you at all times.
If the stinger is still in the skin, remove it by gently scraping across the skin with a flat-edged object like a credit card.
Wash the area with soap and water.
Place a cold compress or an ice pack (wrapped in a cloth to protect the skin) on the sting or bite for about 10min to reduce pain and swelling.
Apply calamine lotion, an antihistamine cream, or a paste of baking soda and water to the area several times a day until itching and pain are resolved.
Ask someone to call for medical help, or call emergency services.
Ask the victim whether he or she carries an adrenalin injector and assist in using it according to label directions.
Help the person remain calm and lie quietly with the legs elevated. If vomiting occurs, turn the person onto his or her side to prevent choking. Do not give them anything to drink.
If the person becomes unconscious and stops breathing, begin CPR, and continue until medical help arrives. (Health Talk Topic 5 March 2015: CPR 101). Secondary bacterial infections are a common complication of insect bites and stings.
An infection can occur if you scratch an insect bite or sting, or it may be introduced at the time you're bitten. Infections are usually treated with antibiotics.
(Source: Healthline)
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