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Anaphylaxis Due to Bee, Wasp, and Ant Stings

Hymenoptera stings can lead to fatal anaphylaxis within minutes in sensitized individuals.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Acil Servis department. Book Appointment →

What is Anaphylaxis Due to Bee, Wasp, and Ant Stings?

The venom of honeybees, wasps, hornets, and certain ant species belonging to the order Hymenoptera contains proteins, amines, and enzymes. In sensitized individuals, an IgE-mediated hypersensitivity reaction can develop within minutes.

Reactions vary as local (pain, erythema, edema), large local, systemic (urticaria, angioedema), and anaphylactic. Anaphylaxis is a life-threatening picture characterized by airway involvement, hypotension, and altered consciousness.

Early adrenaline, airway protection, and fluid resuscitation are essential in treatment. A portable adrenaline auto-injector should be prescribed to at-risk patients and venom immunotherapy should be considered.

Symptoms

Sudden-onset generalized urticaria
Lip, tongue, and throat swelling
Wheezing and airway narrowing
Hypotension, dizziness, fainting
Abdominal pain, vomiting, diarrhea
Altered consciousness and collapse

Risk Factors

Previous insect sting reaction
Atopy and asthma
Mastocytosis and elevated baseline tryptase
Beta-blocker use (treatment resistance)
Sweet eating outdoors, fruit orchards
Beekeepers and outdoor workers

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • Call 112 if there is a systemic reaction or shortness of breath
  • Use the adrenaline auto-injector and go to the emergency room
  • Observation is needed for biphasic reaction after anaphylaxis
  • Referral to an allergy specialist for venom immunotherapy

Treatment Methods

01
Scrape the stinger out, do not squeeze
02
Intramuscular adrenaline (anterolateral thigh)
03
High-flow oxygen and airway protection
04
IV fluid resuscitation
05
Adjuvant antihistamine and steroid therapy
06
Adrenaline auto-injector prescription and training

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Acil Servis department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.