Replies to post #12141 on Derf's Grotto

[Churak]

here is more info, tell your neighbor that it's a matter of life & death that he suck your butt. Then introduce yourself...lol...

Wasps are able to give multiple stings as the sting is shaped like two miniature swords lying parallel within a sheath. The sting is smooth, unlike the honeybee, which have barbed stings that remain in the flesh. When stinging the wasp stabs with one sword, anchors it within the flesh and then stabs in the other, repeating the process, going deeper each time. Once at the full depth the wasp then injects the venom. The main component of the venom is a protein; other components of the venom include histamine, serotonin, and kinin. Kinins cause slow muscle contractions, lower blood pressure in the arteries and thin the capillary walls.



When Stung


* Apply a cold compress to the area - an ice pack is ideal, though do not put the ice directly on the flesh. Preferably leave on for about 20 - 30 minutes.


* Bathe area with a mild solution of vinegar or lemon juice to help neutralise the venom. Then use calamine lotion to soothe the area.


* If swelling persists or area of inflammation increases then obtain some antihistamine medicine from a drug store. Common antihistamine tablets are used for hayfever and creams for skin irritations.


* If stung in the mouth or throat, minimise swelling by sucking on ice or drinking cold water slowly.


* Keep an eye on the patient, if there are any symptoms of an allergic reaction seek medical help as soon as possible.



Here is a list of progressive symptoms of allergic reaction to the wasp stings, going from mild indications through to severe symptoms:


1. Restricted breathing


2. Tightness in the throat, possible dry cough.


3. Fast heart rate, slight temperature and looking flushed


4. Unwell feeling


5. Breathing becoming dry, harsh and difficult.


6. Possible blotchy skin or a rash.


7. Feeling faint


8. Stomach cramps, vomiting or diarrhoea


9. Puffiness in the face, swelling of the lips and tongue - can rapidly progress to severe swelling of the face, lips and throat.


10. Breathing very shallow progressing to respiratory arrest


11. Cardiac arrest



These indicators of severe allergic reaction will occur within the first hour of the sting. The victim needs to be monitored closely. Anaphylaxis needs to be avoided at all costs so if in doubt keep the sting site below the level of the victims heart and seek medical attention immediately.



Some tips on avoiding wasp stings.


* Rule number one: don't poke a wasp nest with a stick!


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* If a wasp lands upon you don't jump up and wave your arms around; agitation will only irritate them.


* If you stumble over a wasp nest move away quickly - very. Run rapidly away through vegetation if possible, to try and dislodge any wasps clinging to you. Generally by the time you have run 50 yards the wasps will have lost interest.


* When out picnicking be aware that wasps are partial to sandwiches - from jam through to fish. Keep food covered. Wasps also like crawling inside cans of soda and beer and will rapidly sting if you take a mouthful including the insect. This is particularly dangerous as a wasp sting in the mouth can cause severe reactions almost immediately.


* Wasps are more likely to attack a person wearing dark clothing than light, so if allergic to insect stings wear light clothing covering both arms and legs.


* Don't panic if you find a wasp in your car, wind down the windows and hope it flies out. Failing that stop and remove it from the car, but remember don't panic!


A couple of other points worth remembering, wasps and bees can start stinging en masse if they smell venom, so move away quickly. Approximately 10% of the population will develop an allergy to wasp venom if stung a few times.


A handy addition to your first aid kit would be an antihistamine both in tablet form and topical cream. In severe cases where someone is at risk of systemic hypersensitivity reactions a visit to the doctor will provide adrenaline, with the application method and instructions on use.