What Wasps Can Kill You?
WouterWhenever a wasp stings you, you are likely to scream, shudder, and shift. This is an allergic reaction to the venom that the wasp has released. The venom contains alkaline compounds that cause pain and swelling. If you are allergic to wasp venom, you are at risk of developing a serious medical condition.
When you are stung by a wasp, the stinger stays attached to your skin. This stinger is used in the wild to paralyze prey. When a wasp stings you, it sends a pheromone that is a signal to other wasps in the colony. Wasps will attack anyone who threatens their nest.
The symptoms of a wasp sting can vary from person to person. Several people experience pain and swelling, while others experience anaphylactic shock, a serious allergic reaction. It is important to seek medical help immediately if your symptoms become severe.
Some people are allergic to the venom of wasps, which can be fatal. This can occur when people sustain multiple stings. You can reduce your risk of developing a severe reaction to a wasp sting by washing the sting area with cold water or applying ice for ten minutes. You can also take Claritin or Tylenol to treat the symptoms.
Although the risk of developing anaphylactic shock is low, if your reaction is severe you should seek medical help immediately. A small percentage of people are allergic to wasp venom and can die if they ingest it.
