Allergic reaction to wasp sting

CHECK-UP: I have students from the local Irish college staying with me. One of the children coming in the next group is severely allergic to wasps. What does this type of allergy involve?

Most people stung by a wasp will experience only mild swelling, itching, and perhaps pain at the site of the sting. Although the allergic reaction to an insect sting varies from person to person, some individuals can develop systemic (body-wide) reactions. This is the result of developing antibodies against the insect venom from a prior exposure. Symptoms of a severe reaction can include hives, swelling of the face, throat, lips and tongue and difficulty breathing. Blood pressure may drop, causing fainting or collapse.

What precautions should be taken when this child arrives?

A person allergic to bee or wasp stings is advised to carry adrenaline with them at all times. This is typically contained in a self-administered, pre-loaded syringe. Called an EpiPen, it is important that the child and anyone caring for them know how to use this. Information on the previous reaction and treatment steps should be established by the college organisers before the child arrives in your care. Talk to your own doctor about what you should do in the event of the child sustaining a sting.

What should I do in the case of a sting?

If a sting has been left in the skin, carefully scrape the area with a blunt object to remove it. Alternatively, you may be able to remove the sting with a tweezers. Try not to pinch the venom sac at the end of it. If this sac is broken, more venom will be released. Clean the area thoroughly with soap and water. Place some ice wrapped in cloth over the site of the sting for 10 minutes and then remove it for 10 minutes. Repeat this process a number of times until the redness, swelling and pain have subsided. An antihistamine drug may be used for mild symptoms. If a serious sting reaction occurs, seek medical attention immediately, even if adrenaline has been used and seems to have worked. The allergic reaction can develop after the injection has worn off. Additional medication to treat the allergic reaction, intravenous fluids and breathing support may be needed by those with a severe reaction to a sting. The faster a patient gets medical help, the better the chance for recovery.