Bee Sting

A bee sting is a wound caused by the stinger of a bee. Bees are generally non-aggressive and only sting when they feel threatened or when their colony is disturbed.

Symptoms

• Pain or burning at the site of the sting
• Redness and swelling around the sting area
• Itching or hive-like symptoms
• Swollen lymph nodes
• In rare cases, anaphylaxis, a severe allergic reaction that can be life-threatening

Cause

Bee stings occur when a bee's stinger punctures the skin, releasing venom into the body. The venom contains a mixture of proteins and other compounds that cause pain, inflammation, and other symptoms.

Treatment

• Remove the stinger immediately by scraping it off with a fingernail or a credit card
• Wash the affected area with soap and water
• Apply a cold compress to reduce swelling
• Take an antihistamine or use a topical cream to relieve itching and reduce inflammation
• In severe cases, administer epinephrine using an EpiPen or seek medical attention immediately

Prevention

• Avoid disturbing bee hives or nests
• Wear protective clothing when outdoors, such as long sleeves and pants
• Avoid sweet-smelling perfumes or colognes that may attract bees
• Keep food and drinks covered when outdoors to avoid attracting bees

Complications

In rare cases, bee stings can cause serious complications, including:

• Anaphylaxis, a severe allergic reaction that can be life-threatening
• Infection, if the sting becomes infected
• Tetanus, if the wound is not properly cleaned and tetanus shots are not up to date

When to Seek Medical Attention

Seek medical attention immediately if you experience any of the following symptoms:

• Difficulty breathing
• Rapid heartbeat
• Fainting or dizziness
• Swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat
• Abdominal cramps
• Nausea or vomiting