A bee sting itself is quite painful, but if the sting is not removed from the skin, the pain can become even more intense. Bees release venom through the stinger, so you need to remove it from the skin as quickly as possible. Learn how to remove the stinger and how to treat localized reactions. If you have severe allergic symptoms, seek immediate medical attention.
Steps
Part 1 of 2: Remove the Sting
Step 1. Call Emergency Medical Assistance (118) if you have severe allergic symptoms
If you have had severe allergy symptoms to bee stings in the past and are carrying an EpiPen, use it immediately. If you have any of these symptoms, seek emergency medical help:
- Dizziness or feeling faint
- Difficulty in breathing;
- Swollen tongue
- Urticaria
Step 2. Scratch off the stinger using a flat surface
Use the edge of a credit card, fingernail, or blunt knife to scrape it (it looks like a black dot). This process actually allows you to pull it out.
Scrapping the stinger prevents further poison from escaping into the sting
Step 3. Apply ice
The area where you were stung will begin to become inflamed and swollen. Applying ice will help numb the area to pain and contain swelling.
If you have been stung on the leg or arm, lift the limb
Part 2 of 2: Treating the Sting Area
Step 1. Apply a hydrocortisone cream
Gently wash the area with mild soap and water. Then apply a thin layer of the cream to reduce any reactions you may have.
For a more natural type of treatment, you can mix the water with the baking soda until you have a thick paste to spread on the sting area
Step 2. Use honey
If you don't have hydrocortisone cream on hand, spread honey over the sting area. Cover with gauze, or a small cloth, and let it sit for an hour before washing it off.
Step 3. Apply toothpaste
Toothpaste is another natural alternative to neutralize bee venom. Dab the affected area with a little toothpaste, apply a gauze or a small cloth and let it rest for 20/30 minutes. Then wash it away.
Step 4. Take some acetaminophen or ibuprofen
They will help relieve the pain. Be sure to follow the recommended dosage instructions from the package leaflet.
Do not give paracetamol or ibuprofen to a child. Buy a pain reliever that is suitable for children and follow the instructions regarding age and dosage
Step 5. Take an antihistamine
It will allow to reduce the intensity of the reaction. You can take Benadryl or apply calamine lotion to reduce itching.
