Can Fire Ants Eat You?
WouterDespite the fact that they are a pest, most species of ants are edible. But some are poisonous and should not be eaten.
There are a number of factors to consider when deciding whether or not to eat a particular ant. For example, if you are allergic to fire ant venom, you could be at risk for a serious allergic reaction. You might also have trouble breathing, or your heart rate could increase.
Some people are hypersensitive to the venom in fire ants and can develop anaphylactic shock if they are bitten several times. However, in most cases, fire ant venom is not toxic. It does, however, irritate the skin after a sting and may cause skin abnormalities.
It is not uncommon to see raised lesions from fire ant stings. These lesions can be painful and unsightly. Usually, they will heal after a few days. However, they can become infected if scratched.
In addition to causing pain, fire ant stings may cause blisters. These blisters can be painful and unsightly, and can leave scars. You can also develop an infection if you scratch the blister.
Although the venom in fire ants is not poisonous, a severe allergic reaction can result in serious swelling and death. In fact, fire ants have killed at least eighty people at their ant mounds. If you are allergic to fire ant venom, it is best to seek immediate medical attention.
If you are allergic to fire ant stings, you might also experience a slurred speech, vomiting, and an increased heart rate. You can also develop a painful, red, raised lesion.
