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Insect Stings

Thousands of people are stung by bees and other insects each year. Each person reacts differently, depending on what kind of insect stings them and how sensitive they are to its venom. Honeybees, yellow jackets, wasps, and hornets are all insects that, if provoked, may sting.

Symptoms

Insect stings often cause one or more red bumps that are usually itchy and sometimes painful. Often there is a small hole in the middle of the site, occasionally with the end of the stinger sticking out.

Despite the skin irritation and occasional swelling, insect stings are not usually dangerous, unless the victim is allergic to insect stings. Bees and wasps are most likely to cause an allergic reaction.

Allergic reactions

Allergic reactions can be very serious. Some people who are allergic to insect stings may experience a life-threatening full-body reaction called anaphylaxis, which requires urgent emergency care. Symptoms of anaphylaxis include:

  • difficulty breathing or swallowing
  • tightness in the throat
  • hives and itching
  • facial swelling, especially around the mouth or eyes
  • pain in the stomach area
  • fast heartbeat

People with significant allergy should carry an insect sting allergy kit and wear a medical ID bracelet or necklace stating this allergy. If the above symptoms occur after being stung, call 911.

Treatment

For mild reactions

  1. Get away from the stinging insects.
  2. Wash the site with soap and water.
  3. If the stinger is left in the skin, remove it by scraping a fingernail or credit card over the area. Do not squeeze the skin or use tweezers to remove the stinger, since this can cause more venom to enter the skin.
  4. Ice the site to reduce pain and swelling. Elevating the stung area, if possible, can also help.
  5. If the site itches, don’t scratch it. Scratching worsens any swelling or itching and increases the chance of infection.
  6. Taking an antihistamine such as diphenhydramine (Benadryl) or chlorpheniramine can help control itching and swelling.
  7. Hydrocortisone cream or calamine lotion, both over-the-counter, can be applied to the skin to lessen itching. Homemade remedies can also be effective, such as a paste of water and baking soda or salt.
  8. Ibuprofen or acetaminophen can be used according to the directions on the label for pain relief.
  9. Don’t be alarmed if the reaction takes several days to subside, especially if there is significant swelling. Continue treatment until the symptoms are gone.

Prevention

Most insects and bees will not attack if left alone. If provoked, a bee will sting in defense of its nest or itself. There are still things one can do, however, to lower the odds of being stung.

  • Wear light-colored clothing. Bright colors can attract insects.
  • Avoid scented soaps, shampoos, and deodorant. Don’t wear cologne or perfume.
  • Wear clothing that covers as much of the skin as possible (long sleeves, pants, socks, shoes, hats, etc.).
  • Bathe and change clothes daily. Sweat can attract and anger bees.
  • Avoid objects that attract insects, such as flowers, trees, bushes, and piles of wood.
  • Keep outdoor areas clean. Yellow jackets thrive in places where humans discard food, so clean up picnic tables, grills, and other eating areas.
  • Be careful when eating or drinking outside, especially sweet things.
  • If a single insect is flying around, remain still. Do not swing or swat at the insect, since doing so may cause it to sting.
  • If surrounded by a swarm of bees or wasps, move away from them slowly. Do not try to wave the insects away. Quick or violent movements will only excite them and make them more likely to sting.
  • If attacked and stung by several stinging insects at the same time, run away. Bees release a chemical when they sting that alerts other bees to the intruder. Outdoors, a shaded area is better than an open area to get away from the insects.
  • If a bee or other stinging insect comes inside the vehicle, stop or pull over slowly. Open all the windows. If possible, wait outside the vehicle until the insect leaves.