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fire ant stings

overview

fire ants are wingless insects that belong to the same family of insects as bees and wasps. fire ants are found in the southeastern and south-central united states, especially along the gulf coast. they tend to attack and sting in great numbers.

a fire ant attaches itself to a person by biting with its jaws. then, pivoting its head, it stings from its belly in a circular pattern at multiple sites. symptoms of a fire ant sting may include:

  • a painful raised bump that becomes a pus-filled blister in 6 to 24 hours and lasts for up to 10 days.
  • skin at the bite site that dies and leaves a scar or bump.
  • a severe life-threatening allergic reaction.
  • a toxic reaction when there have been 20 or more stings.
  • redness and swelling extending beyond the sting site.
  • serum sickness, a rare reaction to stings. flu-like symptoms and hives begin 7 to 14 days after an insect sting.

home treatment can help relieve pain and prevent infection. severe reactions require emergency medical treatment.

credits

current as of: july 10, 2023

author: healthwise staff
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