Bees and Other Things that Sting

By Dr. Rebecca Katzman

Summer months are prime times for people to come into contact with wasps, bees, and hornets. Getting stung can result in anything from momentary discomfort to a severe life-threatening allergic reaction called anaphylaxis. The first step is prevention. Wear light colored clothing, use unscented soaps and lotions, and try not to swat at an insect flying around you. Avoid known nests when possible. Check straws and cups of uncovered beverages outdoors, especially if it contains a sweet liquid. If you do get stung, wash the area with soap and water and apply ice to reduce swelling. If the stinger remains embedded, quickly remove it with clean gauze or scraping the edge. Do not squeeze the stinger or try to remove with tweezers.
Some people may get a reaction called a large localized reaction, with a lot of redness and swelling around the site a day or two after the initial injury. This can be managed with cold compress, elevation, anti-inflammatory medicines, or topical steroid creams like hydrocortisone. Scratching these areas will unfortunately worsen itching and may increase risk of infection.
A small percentage of people will get a severe allergic reaction. If you have difficulty breathing, swelling of the throat and tongue, dizziness, fainting, or vomiting and diarrhea after getting stung, call 911 and seek prompt medical care.
If you know you are allergic to bees, you should have access to an emergency epinephrine autoinjector, often referred to by the brand name EpiPen. Make sure you know how to use your autoinjector, check expiration dates, and keep it with you or in places you might be. If you have a known allergy it is helpful to have a medical alert bracelet and make sure those around you also know how to use your epinephrine autoinjector.