Getting to know

Non-allergic reactions to insect stings manifest themselves as painful, itchy swellings, usually up to 5 cm in diameter, which develops immediately at the site of the sting, and may last for a few hours. These reactions are caused by the toxins contained in the insect venoms. Usually no drug treatment is required. An exception is when the sting occurs in the mouth or the throat. In this case the venom can cause a massive swelling of the mouth or throat lining which can completely block the passage of the air into the lung leading to asphyxia. In these situations, emergency medical treatment is necessary to reduce the swelling and restore breathing.