To treat a bee sting, follow these steps:

1. Remove the stinger quickly by scraping it off with a fingernail, credit card, or gauze. Avoid squeezing it to prevent more venom release.
2. Wash the sting area thoroughly with soap and water.
3. Apply a cold pack or ice wrapped in cloth to reduce pain and swelling, but avoid direct contact with skin.
4. Take over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen for pain relief.
5. Use antihistamines such as diphenhydramine (Benadryl) or loratadine (Claritin) to decrease itching and swelling.
6. Avoid scratching the area to prevent infection.

Optional home remedies that may soothe symptoms include applying honey, aloe vera gel, baking soda paste, or calamine lotion. Seek immediate medical attention if signs of an allergic reaction occur, such as swelling spreading beyond the sting site, difficulty breathing, nausea, dizziness, or hives. This simple thorough first aid usually helps most bee stings heal well within a few days without complications.