If you are stung by a bee, wasp, or hornet, there are several steps you can take to alleviate the pain and swelling:
- Get to safety: calmly walk away from the area to avoid additional attacks.
- Remove the stinger: if the stinger remains in your skin, remove it by scraping over it with your fingernail or a piece of gauze. Never use tweezers to remove a stinger, as squeezing it can cause more venom to release into your skin.
- Wash the affected area with soap and water.
- Apply a cold compress to reduce swelling.
- Take an over-the-counter pain reliever as needed. Painkillers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen can help relieve the pain. Always follow the directions on the label and use the correct dose.
- Consider taking an antihistamine or applying hydrocortisone cream or calamine lotion to ease redness, itching, or swelling.
- Avoid scratching the sting area to prevent worsening itching and swelling.
- Keep an eye on anyone who has been stung in case they develop more serious symptoms. Seek medical attention immediately if you notice any signs of an allergic reaction, or if you or someone you know has been stung multiple times — particularly if he or she is a child. Signs of an allergic reaction include difficulty breathing, a tight feeling in your chest, difficulty swallowing, hives or a skin rash, swelling all over your body, dizziness or lightheadedness, stomach cramps, vomiting, or diarrhea.
Its important to note that home remedies like applying honey, witch hazel, or toothpaste to the sting site are not supported by scientific research and may not be effective. If you experience a severe allergic reaction to a bee sting, seek medical attention immediately.
