Cyclist dies in Brazil after swallowing bee while training

A 43-year-old cyclist died in the town of Manaus (Brazil) after suffering anaphylactic shock after swallowing a bee while training. According to local media, the man was training in the Amazon area of Ponta Negra when the events occurred.

Internal bee sting kills cyclist

As the relatives of the deceased told the Brazilian outlet G1 the insect entered the athlete’s throat and stung him. He was able to call the emergency services when he felt pain and was in poor condition. An ambulance and firefighters rushed to the scene to help the man, who was found unconscious.

After several resuscitation attempts, he was transferred to a hospital located about eight kilometres away, where he was admitted to the Intensive Care Unit. The doctors could not do anything to save his life and he passed away on March 30. Anaphylactic shock itself was stated as the official cause of his death.

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What is anaphylaxis?

With regard to anaphylaxis in general, it is a severe allergic reaction that may be life-threatening. This reaction can occur within seconds or minutes after exposure to an allergen, such as peanuts or bee stings, as in the latest tragic story above.

An overwhelming amount of chemicals from the immune system are released during anaphylaxis, which can result in shock, a sharp decrease in blood pressure, and the constriction of airways, which prevents breathing. A quick and weak pulse, rash, nausea, and vomiting are all possible indicators of anaphylaxis. Certain foods, medicines, insect venom, and latex are typical triggers.

Anaphylaxis needs to be treated quickly by administering epinephrine and obtaining emergency medical care. In the absence of epinephrine, prompt medical care is essential. Anaphylaxis can be deadly if not quickly treated. The CDC provides this useful graphic to assist bystanders and medical professionals to recognise and respond.