NORMAL AND ALLERGIC REACTIONS TO INSECT STINGS
I. Normal, non-allergic reactions at the time of the sting
- Pain, sometimes sharp and piercing b.
- Burning, or itching burn c.
- Redness (erythema) around sting site
- A white area (wheal) immediately surrounding the sting site
- Swelling (edema)
- Tenderness to touch
II. Normal, non-allergic reactions hours or days after itching
- Residual redness c.
- A small brown or red damage spot at the puncture site
- Swelling at the sting site
III. Large Local reactions
- Massive swelling (angioedema) around the sting site extending over an area of 10 cm or more and frequently increasing in size for 24 to 72 hours, sometimes lasting a week in duration.
IV. Cutaneous allergic reactions
- Urticaria (hives, nettle rash) anywhere on the skin
- Angioedema (massive swelling) remote form the sting site
- Generalized pruritis (itching) of the skin
- Generalized erythema (redness) of the skin remote from the sting site
V. Non life-threatening systemic allergic reactions
- Allergic rhinitis or conjunctivitis
- Minor respiratory symptoms
- Abdominal cramps
- Severe gastrointestinal upset
- Fear or other subjective feelings
VI. Life-threatening systemic allergic reactions
- Hypotension or fainting
- Respiratory distress
- Laryngeal blockage (massive swelling in the throat)