X20-X29: Contact with venomous animals and plants

X23: Contact with hornets, wasps and bees

The group of conditions associated with contact with hornets, wasps, and bees typically manifests as localized allergic reactions to their bites or stings. These reactions are usually due to a hypersensitive immune response to the venom injected by the insect during the sting. Common symptoms include immediate sharp, burning pain at the sting site, redness, swelling, and itchiness. On uncommon occasions, an individual might experience a more severe systemic reaction, known as anaphylaxis, characterized by rapid onset of dizziness, difficulty breathing, hives, and swelling of the throat and mouth, requiring urgent medical attention. The progression of the condition varies depending on the individual's immune response, some may experience prolonged symptoms for up to a week or more. These conditions primarily affect the skin, however, in systemic reactions, the cardiovascular and respiratory systems can also be impacted.