Allergic reactions and insect stings
Breathing or swelling problems mean adrenaline and 112, immediately.
Call 112 territory
What to do now
- 1Remove the sting by scraping sideways; cool the area.
- 2Anaphylaxis — swelling of lips or throat, wheeze, difficulty breathing, collapse: use the person's adrenaline auto-injector into the outer thigh straight away.
- 3Call 112, keep the person lying flat with legs raised (sitting up if breathing is hard).
- 4A second dose can be given after 5 minutes if there is no improvement and one is available.
Do not
- 1Do not let them stand up or walk after adrenaline.
- 2Do not wait to 'see how it goes' with throat or breathing symptoms.
- 3Do not squeeze a sting sac.
Seek urgent help if
- 1Any breathing difficulty, throat tightness, widespread rash, dizziness or collapse.
- 2Stings inside the mouth or throat, or many stings at once.
Aftercare
- 1Everyone who receives adrenaline needs hospital observation.
- 2Replace the used auto-injector and carry two on the water.
- 3For ticks: remove with a tick tool close to the skin and watch the site for weeks.
This page is general first-aid guidance for anglers. It cannot diagnose an injury and does not replace professional emergency care. If you are unsure, call 112.
