Bites and Stings

INSECTS

Aim:                
To relieve swelling and pain
To arrange removal to hospital if necessary

Treatment:
If the sting is still present, remove it with tweezers

Apply a cold compress

Some people are allergic to stings and will need to go to hospital.  Always go to hospital if the sting is in the mouth.

Medical Myths:
Wasp Stings: these produce venom that is alkaline, its effects can be neutralized with vinegar or acid which will reduce the pain.

Bee Stings: the venom in a bee sting is acidic and so its effects can be neutralized with bicarbonate of soda.

TICK BITES

Ticks are tiny spider-like insects found in grass or woodland. When they have not been fed they are very small and their bite is painless.  As they feed, they increase in size and can swell to the size of a pea. They carry disease and so should be removed with tweezers using a lever-like movement with the tweezers as close to the skin as possible. Take the tick to hospital with the patient.

MARINE STINGS

Jellyfish, sea anemones and corals contain venom in stinging cells that stick to your skin and are released when the cell ruptures. Spiny creatures such as sea urchins or weever fish (found around Britain’s coastline) cause problems if you tread on them. Their spines may puncture the skin and break off to become embedded in the skin.  

In the UK, these creatures usually cause a sore reaction only, but around the world, sea creatures can cause fatal reactions. 

Aim:                
To inactivate the stinging cells before they release their venom and neutralize any free venom
To relieve pain and discomfort

Treating stings:
Pour alcohol (any alcoholic drink) or household vinegar on for a few minutes to incapacitate stinging cells that have not yet fired. 

Apply a paste of baking soda and water to the wound.

Dust powder over the skin around the injury to make remaining cells stick together

Treating puncture wounds:
Soak in very hot water for at least 30 mins.

Take the casualty to hospital.

ANIMAL BITES

Main risk is infection for any bite that breaks the skin. Human bites are particularly bad, and can also crush the tissues. Rabies is a risk in any bite overseas.

Aim:                
To control bleeding
To minimize risk of infection for you and the casualty

Treatment:
Wash the wound with soap and water

Pat dry and cover with a dressing

Go to a doctor

© The Westover

 

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