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Take the sting out of summer
Recognise the difference between a bite and a sting and how to deal with them
Biting and stinging insects can be the curse of summer. But how many of us know the difference between a bite and a sting and how to deal with them?
Stings
Stings are caused by venomous insects such as wasps, bees and hornets that attack as a defence mechanism, injecting venom into the skin.
Most people when stung develop only a local reaction of a painful swollen area up to 12 inches from the sting site.
However, some individuals can experience a whole body allergic reaction to stings, with redness, hives or rash and possible swelling all over the body.
This then can become life threatening. If the person stung feels unwell, has difficulty breathing or develops a rash away from the sting site, immediate medical attention should be sought. Medical help should also be sought straight away if anyone is stung in the mouth or throat, as swelling from the sting could cause interference with the airway.
Bites
Bites are caused by non-venomous insects such as mosquitoes and fleas, usually injecting anti-coagulant saliva in order to feed on blood. Bites are not usually dangerous because severe allergic reactions are rare. However, bites can be very itchy and uncomfortable.
There are some natural preventatives and remedies to bites and stings that cause non-serious local irritation:
Wasp stings are alkaline and can be neutralised with a dab of cider vinegar or lemon juice.
Bees inject a stinger which has a venom sac attached. To remove the sting, avoid using fingers or tweezers as they may squeeze the sac and more venom into the skin.
Instead, use the edge of a blunt knife or credit card to remove it. Bee and ant venom is acidic, and can be neutralised with a paste of bicarbonate of soda and water.
Aloe vera gel can help take the itch and
soreness out of bites.
To prevent infection, wash the area well and dab with a drop of an antiseptic, such as one drop of lavender or tea tree oil (dilute for children).
This can also help to reduce swelling. A cold compress is helpful on minor swelling. Continue to monitor carefully for a while after the incident to ensure no delayed severe reaction.
Natural insect repellents Lavender, patchouli, lemongrass and eucalyptus aromatherapy oils all make good repellents. Insects do not like the smell of garlic, so eat plenty to keep them at bay. A 50mg dose of vitamin B complex daily, for at least a couple of weeks before going on holiday, will help keep mosquitoes at bay.
Call Donna at The Cottage Therapy Studio on 01234 838880 for allergy and intolerance analysis, wellness MOTs and menopause naturally consultations: www.scio-wellness.com
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Weather for Bedford
Monday 13 February 2012
Today
Light rain
Temperature: 2 C to 7 C
Wind Speed: 21 mph
Wind direction: West
Tomorrow
Cloudy
Temperature: 4 C to 8 C
Wind Speed: 17 mph
Wind direction: North west
