Bee stings are an uncomfortable and potentially dangerous experience. Mettigel It’s a good idea to know what to do when you get stung, especially if you have a medical condition that increases your risk of getting stung.
The stinger of a bee, wasp or yellow jacket gets into your skin through a small opening in the insect’s body. Some stingers are retractable and stay with the bee, while others, like those of honey bees, remain in your skin.
Most people who are stung will experience redness, pain and swelling at the sting site. Some may also experience itching. In most cases, the sting will subside within a few days.
Those with an allergy to bee venom can have a serious reaction called anaphylaxis, which can cause rashes or hives, throat swelling, nausea and vomiting, wheezing, dizziness, a rapid pulse, or loss of consciousness. In these severe reactions, people must seek medical help immediately.
If you’re allergic to bee venom, see your doctor for an epinephrine auto-injector (EpiPen or Auvi-Q), which can be used quickly by anyone who is stung. This can greatly reduce the chance of experiencing a life-threatening reaction.
It is important to take steps to avoid being stung by bees in the first place, since they usually sting people who wander too close to their nests or startle them with sudden movements. This is a very hard impulse to control, so try to move away slowly and gently when you encounter bees in your yard or other areas where they’re likely to sting.
In addition, you should not attempt to swat or jerk at a bee; this can make them feel threatened and sting you more. The bee’s stinger releases an alarm pheromone, which can signal other bees to respond by stinging you as well.
Home remedies for a bee sting
Many people swear by home remedies for bee stings, including witch hazel and calendula cream. Apply a dab of these to the sting site to prevent infection and reduce swelling and pain. You can also use a cotton ball soaked in witch hazel to cool the area and soothe itchy skin.
Cold compresses are another common way to treat a bee sting, since they limit blood flow to the skin. These compresses can be applied directly to the sting for about 10 minutes.
Other home remedies for a bee sting include soaking the sting site in warm water and applying a bandage or cloth to the affected area. You can also re-apply the same treatment as you did before and cover it with a bandage.
The main goal is to remove the stinger as soon as possible, since it keeps pumping venom into your skin. While pulling or pinching the stinger out isn’t ideal, you should do this if you’re unable to remove it with a simple brush or tweezer.
You should call 911 right away if you have any of these symptoms: rashes, throat or tongue swelling, trouble breathing, a rapid pulse or loss of consciousness. You may need emergency medical assistance if you have multiple stings, which can be life threatening for people with certain medical conditions.