How to Respond If You Are Stinked by Fire Ants
WouterGetting stung by fire ants is not something to be taken lightly. The sting can be painful, and even life threatening for people who are allergic to ants. This is why you need to know how to respond if you are stung. If you are not allergic to fire ants, you still need to get medical attention.
If you are allergic to fire ants, you can develop a life-threatening allergic reaction called anaphylaxis. It’s a condition that causes swelling and redness, itching, and trouble breathing. You should always take emergency medicine, and carry an epinephrine injector.
If you experience a mild reaction, you may not need any medical attention. However, if you develop anaphylaxis, you will need immediate medical care. You may also develop hives, stomach cramps, dizziness, or difficulty breathing. Depending on the severity of your reaction, you may need to be in the hospital.
If you have a severe allergic reaction to ants, you may need to be treated by an allergist. A doctor may also give you shots to desensitize you to the venom. This can be a very effective long-term treatment. If you have a severe allergy, you should learn to properly administer epinephrine.
There are only a few species of ants that produce a large local reaction. These stings cause intense itching and swelling that lasts for at least 24 hours. The swelling can interrupt blood flow to your hands.
Some people who have severe allergies to fire ants will go into anaphylaxis after only a few stings. You can learn to treat a mild ant sting, but you will need to be treated for a serious reaction.
