Editorials

When stinging insects become a painful problem

It's the time of years when stinging insects that normally keep their distance can become a problem.

Late summer is peak season for bee, wasp and hornet activity - and the time of year when stinging insects can be at their most aggressive, Emplify Health by Bellin warns.

Stinging insect colonies have grown to their largest size and are at their most active as they transition toward nest defense ahead of winter. This transition triggers a more aggressive and defensive behavior toward anything they perceive as a threat, Emplify Health advised in a news release.

At the same time, as blooming flowers and plants dwindle, bees, wasps and hornets increasingly search for other food sources - bringing them into closer contact with people and pets while at outdoor dining areas or recreational spots, according to Emplify Health.

"With increased bee, wasp and hornet activity, paired with community members seeking outside time before the temperature drops, we are seeing more sting-related injuries," Dr. Brad Burmeister, Emplify Health by Bellin emergency physician, said in the release.

For most people, a sting causes localized pain, redness and swelling that can usually be managed at home. Emplify Health recommends these steps for a minor reaction:

-- Move to a safe area to avoid additional stings.

-- Remove the stinger, if present, by scraping the skin with a flat edge, such as a credit card. Avoid pinching the stinger, which can push more venom into the skin.

-- Wash the area with soap and water.

-- Apply a cold compress or ice pack to reduce swelling.

-- Take an over-the-counter antihistamine or pain reliever as needed for discomfort.

-- Elevate the affected area if possible.

While sting are often minor, they can trigger serious allergic reactions or anaphylaxis, even in those who have been stung before without incident. Seek emergency care immediately if any of these symptoms develop:

-- Difficulty breathing, wheezing or shortness of breath.

-- Swelling of the face, throat, tongue or lips.

-- Hives or widespread rash that spreads beyond the sting site.

-- Dizziness, lightheadedness or fainting.

-- Rapid heartbeat.

-- Nausea, vomiting or diarrhea.

-- Feeling of throat tightness or difficulty swallowing.

"A single sting can be life-threatening for someone with a severe allergy, and multiple stings can trigger those same symptoms," Burmeister said, adding, "Epinephrine is the first-line treatment for anaphylaxis, and every minute matters."

To help make treatment more readily available for someone experiencing anaphylaxis, Emplify Health encourages community members to consider taking the Do It for Dillon Epinephrine Training program, which prepares them to carry and administer epinephrine auto-injectors to those experiencing a severe allergic reactions.

To learn more about free epinephrine training, go to www.epifordilly.com or sign up for Emplify Health by Bellin's free "Do It for Dillon" Epinephrine Training program by going to bellin.org/events.