Shock after an insect bite. This you must know

Being stung or bitten by an insect is never pleasant. Sometimes it can also end tragically. There are many examples. A year ago, actor Jerzy Janeczek, known from the cult movie “Sami Swoi”, died as a result of a bee sting. In 2006, in similar circumstances, actress Ewa Sarówka died, in this case it was a wasp. Who should be afraid of an insect bite?

1. There are many insects in Poland that can sting or bite, causing various types of unpleasant ailments
2. Some of them, however, can be deadly. A wasp, bee or hornet sting can lead to anaphylactic shock
3. When it does happen, an immediate response is required
4. More information can be found on the Onet homepage.

Does every bee or wasp sting cause anaphylactic shock?

Cases of bee, wasp or hornet stings are not uncommon in Poland. Such an event may occur, for example, when we unconsciously step on an insect with our bare feet. Although the sting is painful and causes swelling, it is not a serious threat to health, let alone life, for most people. Following the incident, the skin may be red and itchy, and the injection site may be sore. Symptoms go away on their own after some time.

However, the situation is different when a person is allergic to the venom of a given insect. This is when the body reacts very strongly to the allergen. Anaphylactic shock progresses rapidly and can be fatal if the victim is not treated in time. Therefore, people who know they are allergic should have adrenaline with them for immediate administration.

Adults are more likely to experience anaphylactic shock following stings than children. It is estimated that insect venom allergy is about 3%. adult population. It is more common in allergy sufferers and asthmatics. In 2 – 3 percent people who develop anaphylactic shock are fatal.

How quickly does anaphylactic shock appear after an insect bite?

After an insect sting in a person who is not allergic to the venom, symptoms appear gradually. In the following days, they begin to resolve spontaneously. However, if your health deteriorates, you must contact your doctor.

On the other hand, a severe allergic reaction after contact with venom can occur immediately. Sometimes it’s just minutes from the event. However, it is assumed that anaphylactic shock may occur within two hours of an insect sting. Symptoms of allergies are visible not only at the injection site. They can affect the entire body.

What is the risk of anaphylactic shock?

Anaphylactic shock after an insect sting can cause serious health problems, including death. A strong reaction to insect venom can result in:

1. brain damage
2. kidney failure
3. cardiogenic shock (the heart is not pumping enough blood)
4. arrhythmia
5. heart attack

Symptoms of anaphylactic shock after an insect sting

Anaphylactic shock after an insect sting gives specific symptoms. Primarily:

1. breathing difficulties
2. an itchy rash that also appears outside the injection area
3. swelling of the face, throat, lips and tongue
4. difficulty swallowing, drooling, speechlessness
5. accelerated heart rate
6. dizziness or a sudden drop in blood pressure

First aid for an insect sting. What to do in case of anaphylactic shock?

When we witness another person’s anaphylactic shock, the first thing we should do is call the emergency room. Before it arrives to provide the patient with professional help, however, first aid is needed. What do you have to do?

1. Clear the patient’s airway and initiate resuscitation if necessary
2. take off the clothes and jewelry of the sick person
3. give adrenaline, if you have it with you
4. turn the patient onto his back and lift his legs

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