Most people are not allergic to insect stings but everyone should be able to recognise the difference between a systemic allergic reaction and a normal localised reaction.
The most serious reaction to an insect sting is an allergic one which may lead to anaphylaxis.
Self-administration of adrenaline
Adrenaline is the first line treatment for anaphylaxis1 and each patient identified to be "at risk" from bee or wasp induced anaphylaxis should carry two EpiPens at all times.
As adrenaline does not treat the underlying allergy, it is not a cure. It is vital that patients are referred to a physician with specialist knowledge of allergies for an evaluation in order to establish the correct diagnosis and the possible need for further treatment.
1.The Emergency Medical Treatment of Anaphylactic Reactions. Resuscitation Council (UK). Revised January 2002.
