SAVED FROM LIFE-THREATENING ANAPHYLACTIC SHOCK AFTER 70 WASP STINGS

What seemed like just a few wasp stings turned into a life-threatening emergency!

Nam Sai Gon International General Hospital recently received a critical emergency case involving a woman stung by over 70 wasps while exercising near her home.

The 61-year-old patient, with a history of hypertension, was admitted in Grade 3 anaphylactic shock, accompanied by acute liver failure, acute kidney injury, respiratory failure, and rhabdomyolysis—all of which are life-threatening without rapid intervention.

Fortunately, she was brought to the hospital just 40 minutes after the incident and was immediately transferred to the Intensive Care Unit (ICU). There, she received a series of intensive life-saving treatments:

• Continuous renal replacement therapy (CRRT)
• Mechanical ventilation and multi-organ support
• Hemodynamic stabilization and infection control

After 10 days of intensive care, the patient regained full consciousness, was extubated, moved to a general ward, and later discharged in stable condition.

“I was lucky to be brought to the hospital in time. I’m truly grateful to the doctors and nurses at Nam Sai Gon International General Hospital”, the patient shared emotionally.

Don’t Underestimate Wasp Stings!

The venom of wasps can trigger severe allergic reactions, leading to anaphylactic shock, hemolysis, kidney failure, and multi-organ damage. The danger increases dramatically when stung multiple times, as the amount of venom absorbed can reach toxic levels.

According to Dr. Lai Thanh Tan, ICU specialist at Nam Sai Gon International General Hospital: “Many people wrongly assume wasp stings only cause pain and swelling. In reality, wasp venom contains potent enzymes and toxins that may cause anaphylaxis, toxic shock, liver and kidney injury, coagulopathy, and multi-organ failure — especially in individuals with pre-existing conditions like hypertension, diabetes, heart disease, or immune disorders”.

What To Do After A Wasp Sting

• Move away from the area immediately
• Do not scratch or squeeze the sting site
• Remove any visible stinger (if present)
• Rinse with saline or clean running water
• Apply a cold compress

If you experience shortness of breath, dizziness, nausea, or severe swelling, then seek emergency medical attention immediately.

Nam Sai Gon International General Hospital – Emergency Care You Can Trust

With a modern emergency – ICU system and a team of highly experienced physicians, Nam Sai Gon International General Hospital has successfully treated many critical cases, including anaphylactic shock, severe infections, poisoning, and multi-organ failure.

Timely intervention, evidence-based protocols, and continuous monitoring are key to helping patients recover safely from life-threatening conditions.

Never ignore unusual symptoms after an insect or wasp sting. Prompt treatment can save lives.

Thank you to Thanh Nien, Dan Tri, Lao Dong, VNExpress, Phu Nu Viet Nam, Van Hoa, and Zingnews for helping raise public awareness about this important case.

Nam Sai Gon International General Hospital

No. 88, Street No. 8, Trung Son Residential Area, Binh Hung Commune, Ho Chi Minh City.

Hotline: 18006767

info@nih.com.vn

BRC: No. 0312088602, issued on December 14th, 2012 by the Department of Planning and Investment of Ho Chi Minh City. Medical Examination and Treatment License No. 230/BYT-GPHĐ, issued by the Ministry of Health.