Did You Know That Wasps Don’t Cause Tetanus?
WouterGetting stung by a wasp is usually very painful. However, it’s important to know that wasps don’t cause tetanus.
The tetanus bacteria, Clostridium tetani, is found in animal feces and can survive in wounds. It’s also able to survive in dormant states in the soil. The main risk for getting tetanus is not getting a vaccination. If you do get stung by a wasp, it’s important to get a tetanus shot immediately.
The first symptoms you’ll notice after being stung by a wasp are redness and swelling at the sting site. You may also experience itching and discomfort. To help with the pain and itching, you can apply a cold pack or ibuprofen. You can also apply calamine lotion or hydrocortisone cream.
If you experience severe symptoms after being stung by a wasp, you need to get emergency medical attention immediately. You may also need an epinephrine injector.
Wasp stings can cause neurological complications, such as atrial fibrillation. This irregular heartbeat can lead to blood pooling in the heart and triggering stroke.
In addition to the symptoms mentioned above, you may experience nausea and vomiting. If you’re stung multiple times, you may become very ill. If you have a severe allergic reaction, you may require a second epinephrine injection.
You may also experience muscle rigidity in the neck and abdomen. This could lead to fractures of bones. This condition is also known as generalized spasms.
Symptoms can vary and can last from several minutes to several hours. In extreme cases, you may experience a rapid pulse and headache. In some cases, your eyes may dilate. You may also feel weak and tired.
