Vespa or bee sting? Here's what to do
In the summer months, their buzzing in the air often plays the background during a cheerful garden party or a pleasant day in the park. In fact, summer is the favorite season for insects such as wasps and bees. Their sting is unpleasant and painful. And for those who are allergic to insect bites, the consequences can also be fatal.
The months of August and September are among those favored by wasps and bees. In particular, they are attracted by the smell of food, sweet fragrances, and sunscreens. Even the bright colors attract small insects. Wasps and bees sting to defend themselves; the consequences of their bites on our skin are swelling, itching and pain.
Distinguish a wasp sting from a bee
A bee sting is relatively easy to recognize. The sting of the bee with the bag containing the poison remains stuck in the site of the sting and is clearly visible.
In this case, it is important to remove the sting as soon as possible. Avoid pulling it out with your fingers, as doing so the bag with the poison could spill into the lesion. Better to use tweezers or anti-tick paper.
Emergency measures
• Immediately cool the puncture site to reduce swelling and alleviate pain.
• Use a so-called "thermo-healer for insect bites". This electronic device, whose tip should be applied directly to the puncture, acts locally and warms up the injured part. Through heat, itching and swelling are reduced or not at all.
• Apply anti-inflammatory creams or creams based on antihistamines or take oral antihistamines.
• Do not scratch the area affected by bites, as this could promote the penetration of bacteria and inflammation of the wound.
• Stings in the neck and throat area can cause severe swelling of the respiratory tract even in non-allergic subjects. In these cases, contact your doctor or emergency room.
Allergic reaction
From three to four percent of the Swiss population suffers from an allergy to insect poison. In the event of an allergic reaction, the symptoms occur within a few minutes, usually also in areas distant from the puncture site. Symptoms may include itching, swelling, hives, vomiting, tachycardia, and sudden pressure drop. In the worst case, the so-called anaphylactic shock (cardiovascular collapse, loss of consciousness and respiratory arrest) can occur. In the presence of an allergic reaction, a doctor should be consulted immediately. Your doctor may also prescribe an emergency kit consisting of multiple drugs that can alleviate allergic reactions to insect bites and stabilize circulation.