|  | Bites Stings | Insect Bites

Signs & Symptoms of Insect Stings

Almost everyone has experienced an insect sting. Whether from an ant or a bee, insect stings often cause some sort of reaction. The signs and symptoms of insect stings range from a minor annoyance to a major reaction. These reactions can occur at anywhere from a few minutes after the sting to two days after the sting's occurrence, according to the University of Minnesota Medical Center at Fairview. Learn the signs and symptoms of these reactions and how to treat them.

  1. Mild Reactions

    • When an insect stings, the typical reaction is redness, swelling and itching around the affected area, according to the University of Minnesota Medical Center at Fairview. Although some people experienced symptoms immediately, others may notice a delayed reaction. These delayed reactions, according to MayoClinic.com, include hives, fever and swollen glands. Some people will suffer from both types of reactions.

    Anaphalaxis

    • Some people experience severe reactions to insect stings. The American College of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology estimates that two million people in the U.S. have an insect-sting allergy. Insect stings account for more than 500,000 emergency room visits each year in the U.S. Signs and symptoms of these reactions include breathing difficulty, throat swelling, hoarseness, dizziness, fast heartbeat and confusion. Sometimes blood pressure will drop severely, causing loss of consciousness.

    Treatment

    • If a stinger remains in the skin, remove it as soon as possible. Avoid pinching the area when removing the stinger because pinching may cause more venom to be released, according to the ACAAI . Using soap and water, wash the area where the stinger was inserted. MayoClinic.com suggests applying an ice pack for painful and swollen areas. For itching, apply hydrocortisone cream or take an antihistamine. Contact a health-care provider if the symptoms worsen or if signs of a severe reaction develop. In case of a severe reaction, call 911. MayoClinic.com suggests administering an epinephrine auto-injector, if you carry a prescribed kit.

    Prevention

    • Avoid bright clothing because it attracts insects. Sweet smelling substances -- such as perfumes, hairspray and deodorants -- also attract insects. To reduce the chances of being stung, cover exposed skin, wear fitted clothing and avoid walking outside without shoes. Avoid carrying around open sodas and cover food when eating outside. The ACAAI advises people to exercise caution during late summer and early fall, when insects are most active.

Insect Bites - Related Articles