Fortunately, recovery from most stings is rapid and occurs within a couple of days. Only the females are capable of stinging because the stinger is actually a modified ovipositor or egg-laying tube. Originally, the stinger served to deposit eggs in protected areas or into the bodies of insect prey. Later, venom glands evolved and the stinger began to be used as a weapon to paralyze prey and defend the nest. Symptoms and Treatment of Stings Insect stings normally are characterized by moderate to severe pain, localized reddening and swelling, and occasionally even mild headache and fever.
Treatment involves disinfecting the wounded area with soap and water.
In allergic individuals, insect stings can cause a life-threatening systemic reaction which rapidly can lead to anaphylactic shock. Symptoms in these individuals usually appear within minutes after the sting. Localized swelling can be extensive, with a hives-like condition occurring over the body. There also may be a choking sensation, accompanied by difficulty breathing and blueness in the lips and extremities. This may be followed by nausea, vomiting and loss of consciousness.