Contents:
- Medical Video: Bee stings used as alternative health treatments
- Bee sting therapy increases the risk of anaphylactic shock
- Anaphylactic shock symptoms to watch out for
Medical Video: Bee stings used as alternative health treatments
Used to be avoided, now bee stings are sought after as acupuncture therapy for the treatment of joint pain and rheumatism. But wait a minute. Although believed to be beneficial, bee sting therapy can pose a dangerous risk if done carelessly.
Bee sting therapy increases the risk of anaphylactic shock
Bee stings contain toxins that can cause allergic reactions, ranging from reddish and swollen skin to heat to itching at the point of sting. For most people, allergic reactions that occur as a result of being stung by bees are only temporary and harmless.
Even so, the effect of bee stings can be potentially fatal in some people who have a history of allergies, if you use a lot of stings in one session, or if the therapy is repeated several times. Severe allergic reactions that occur as a result of bee stings can lead to anaphylactic shock.
The first time you are exposed to allergens, in this case bee poisons, your immune system will learn to recognize and fight them by producing antibodies. However, repeated exposure makes the bee venom residue accumulate in the body for years. In the end, these poisons can turn around, causing your immune system to produce excessive responses that affect your entire body and can put your life in danger.
This is what happened to a middle-aged woman from Spain who died after undergoing bee sting therapy. In fact, he had been undergoing this therapy for years without any complaints.
Anaphylactic shock symptoms to watch out for
Symptoms of anaphylactic shock generally include itchy skin or itchy spots; runny nose or sneezing; swollen mouth, tongue and lips that make breathing difficult and difficult to swallow; swollen arms or legs; stomach cramps or diarrhea; to vomiting. Symptoms may start in seconds and can develop quickly.
In already severe cases, anaphylactic shock can cause shortness of breath or wheezing, very low degenerated blood pressure, chest pain, and loss of consciousness.
Anaphylactic shock is an emergency condition that must get medical treatment as soon as possible, a maximum of 30-60 minutes after the initial symptoms appear. Generally, anaphylactic reactions can be quickly treated by injection of epinephrine (EpiPen). If late or not handled properly, anaphylatic shock can cause death.
Because the risk of health is very high, bee sting therapy should not be done carelessly. Look for certified practice sites with professional experts in their fields. Don't forget to consult a doctor before you intend to undergo the therapy.
