Insects such as bees, wasps, hornets, or jelyfish cause stings which
are more painful and alarming than they are dangerous. Some people however
are allergic to the poison. Morover, multiple stings from a swarm of insects
can have a dangerous cumulative effect.
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SYMPTOMS
- Unexpected sharp pain; an insect may still be present;
- There will be swelling around the affected area with a central reddened
puncture point
- Possibility of shock.
AIM
Remove sting if present and attempt to reduce swelling and relieve pain. If
sting inside the mouth, arrange urgent removal to hospital
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TREATMENT
1. If the sting has been left embedded in the skin, hold the tweezers as
near to the skin as possible, grasp the sting and remove it
DO NOT squeeze he poison sac because this will force the remaining
poison into the skin
2. To relieve pain and swelling, apply a cold compress, surgical spirit
or a solution of bicarbonate of soda. For jellyfish stings, smooth
calamine lotion into the affected area.
3. If pain and swelling persist, seek medical aid
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