Thousands of people are stung by insects every year. Everyone reacts to some degree to insect stings, but less than 5% of the population is truly allergic.
The normal reaction in people is typically pain, swelling and redness confined to the sting site. This can be dealt with by disinfecting the area and applying ice to reduce the swelling. Exceptionally, this local reaction results in swelling that extends beyond the sting site. Someone stung on the forearm, for example, may experience swelling of the entire arm to twice its normal size. Although alarming in appearance, this condition usually persists for only 2-3 days. Antihistamines or hydrocortisone may be recommended to lessen the discomfort
The most serious reaction to an insect sting is an allergic one which may lead to anaphylaxis. Anaphylaxis is a severe allergic reaction which is a medical emergency and may occasionally be fatal, if appropriate medical treatment is delayed.
A self-administering, user-friendly auto-injector is available for reversing the immediate life-threatening symptoms of anaphylaxis. After using it, you must nevertheless seek immediate medical attention, as further treatment and close observation in hospital is always required.