Bee and Wasp Stings (cont.)
Medical Author:
Marion Berg, MD
Medical Editor:
Melissa Conrad Stöppler, MD, Chief Medical Editor
Melissa Conrad Stöppler, MD, Chief Medical EditorMelissa Conrad Stöppler, MD, is a U.S. board-certified Anatomic Pathologist with subspecialty training in the fields of Experimental and Molecular Pathology. Dr. Stöppler's educational background includes a BA with Highest Distinction from the University of Virginia and an MD from the University of North Carolina. She completed residency training in Anatomic Pathology at Georgetown University followed by subspecialty fellowship training in molecular diagnostics and experimental pathology. IN THIS ARTICLE
PreventionSome, but not all, stings can be prevented. It is especially important that people known to be allergic to certain insects make an effort to avoid those insects.
Ways to avoid stings include the following:
If you have had a previous significant allergic reaction to a sting, it is very important that you have readily available (and know when and how to use) a self-administered injectable epinephrine emergency sting kit, such as an EpiPen.
If you have had a prior significant allergic reaction to a sting, talk to your doctor about seeing an allergy specialist. Immunotherapy, a series of shots of low-dose sting venom, may reduce the risk of future severe allergic reactions from similar stings from about 60% to about 5%. If you have had a prior significant allergic reaction to a sting, consider wearing a Medic Alert bracelet and carrying an emergency medical allergy card in your wallet or purse. Next Page: Must Read Articles Related to Bee and Wasp Stings
Allergic Reaction
An allergic reaction is an overreaction to a harmless substance. Symptoms and signs of an allergic reaction include hives, rashes, swelling, itching, wheezing, ...learn more >>
Viewer Comments & ReviewsBee And Wasp Sting - Self-CareThe eMedicineHealth physician editors ask:What self-care did you use on your bee and/or wasp sting? Bee and Wasp Sting - Describe Your ExperienceThe eMedicineHealth physician editors ask:Please describe your experience with Bee and Wasp Sting. Bee and Wasp Sting - TreatmentsThe eMedicineHealth physician editors ask:What treatment or treatments did you use for you bee and/or wasp sting? |
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Bee and Hymenoptera Stings »
Hymenoptera stings account for more deaths in the United States than any other envenomation.
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