bee sting

bee sting

Etymology: AS, beo + stingan

an injury caused by the venom of bees, usually accompanied by pain and swelling. The stinger of the honeybee usually remains implanted and should be removed. Pain may be alleviated by application of an ice pack or a paste of sodium bicarbonate and water. Serious reactions may result from multiple stings, stings on some areas of the head, or the injection of venom directly into the circulatory system. In a hypersensitive person, a single bee sting may result in death through anaphylactic shock and airway obstruction. Hypersensitive individuals are encouraged to carry emergency treatment supplies, including epinephrine, with them when the possibility of bee sting exists. Compare wasp, yellow jacket venom.

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bee sting

injury caused by the venom of a honey bee (Apis mellifera). Multiple stings cause local swelling, pain and excitement, and may cause dyspnea if the head is affected. A systemic effect, including diarrhea, hemoglobinuria, jaundice, tachycardia and prostration, may be observed in horses.

note: a singular sting in a horse has quite a different meaning.

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bee sting

Immunology A sting from bees and other stinging insects including yellow jackets, hornets and wasps can trigger allergic reactions of variable severity; avoidance and prompt treatment are essential; in selected cases, allergy injection therapy is highly effective

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Patient discussion about bee sting.

Q. what do i do first if i got stung by a bee? and i am allergic ... :)

A. People who are known to be severely allergic to bee sting usually carry on themselves an adrenaline injection (called epipen etc.), which should be given in order to prevent serious complications of the allergic reaction (like blockage of air flow to the lungs and shock), and then seek medical attention.

However, these measures are prescribed by a doctor, so if you have any questions regarding this subject, you should consult one (e.g. immunologist).

You may read more here:
http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/anaphylaxis/DS00009

Q. How to treat a bee sting? We went on a picnic today and my son was stung by a bee. How to treat it?

A. if your son is allergic to bees venom- you need to inject epinephrine very fast and take him to the nearest hospital. but if his not allergic- nothing. if the bee left it's sting try removing it with flicking motion of the fingers, not by grabbing it- this will inject any venom that didn't enter right inside. and calm the kid down and tell him it's not the end of the world. the bee probably though he is a flower and tasted like nectar.