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Pack Your Bags For Summer Sting Relief
Atlanta, Ga. (May 19, 2008) - Whether it's a day at the beach, hiking in the mountains or a backyard barbecue, a chance encounter can turn an enjoyable summer outing into a miserable, and sometimes life-threatening, event.
Nearly 300,000 children are injured in the United States each year as a result of insect and jellyfish stings. And at least 40 deaths occur annually in the U.S. from reactions to stings.
The Georgia Association of Physician Assistants (GAPA) wants you to be aware of the potential dangers of stings, but, more importantly, they want you to be prepared and ready to respond quickly and appropriately.
"For some, stings are life-threatening, and require immediate professional treatment. But for most people, stings are simply painful," advises GAPA President Ben Taylor, PA-C, PhD. "There are, however, some common and even natural ways to help relieve the pain of minor stings."
Taylor advises three basic actions: remove the stinger, cleanse the area, and find relief.
For bee stings, you can swipe the stinger from the skin using a credit card, then wash with soap and water. Apply ice to the area, followed by an over-the-counter product made for stings, or a paste of baking soda or meat tenderizer and water.
For jellyfish stings, remove the victim from the water and try to avoid touching the tentacles. Rinse the affected area with salt water (fresh water will worsen the reaction). Remove any tentacles still in contact with the victim wearing gloves or using tweezers if possible. Apply white vinegar to help inactivate the toxin and encourage the victim to remain still.
Generally, administering over-the-counter pain medications such as acetaminophen can help control pain symptoms.
"Above all, remember to observe the victim for any adverse reaction," cautions Taylor. "If the person appears ill, is stung in the mouth, nose, or throat area, or displays any signs of a systemic reaction, call 911 and seek emergency care immediately."
It is the mission of the Georgia Association of Physician Assistants to promote high quality, cost-effective, accessible health care as part of a physician-directed PA/physician team in Georgia. To learn more health tips or how PAs make health care more affordable and accessible in Georgia, please visit http://www.GAPA.net and click on "Patients."
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