What is the treatment for a bee sting?

Bee Sting Treatment

The treatment for a bee sting involves immediate removal of the stinger by plucking or scraping, followed by washing the area with soap and water, and managing symptoms with over-the-counter medications. 1

Initial Management

For Regular Bee Stings:

1. Remove the stinger immediately 1, 2

   • Remove as quickly as possible (within seconds)
   • Either scraping or pinching is acceptable - method is less important than speed
   • Honeybee stingers can continue to deliver venom for up to 60 seconds

2. Clean the area 1, 3

   • Wash with soap and water to prevent secondary infection

3. Manage local symptoms 1, 3

   • For pain relief:

     • Apply ice or cold compresses for 10-15 minutes several times daily
     • Take over-the-counter pain medications (acetaminophen or NSAIDs)

   • For itching:

     • Use over-the-counter oral antihistamines
     • Apply topical corticosteroids (limit use to 1-2 weeks to prevent skin thinning)

4. For significant swelling:

   • Elevate the affected extremity 3

Emergency Management for Anaphylaxis

Recognize signs of anaphylaxis (requires immediate medical attention) 1, 4:

• Difficulty breathing
• Tongue or throat swelling
• Lightheadedness
• Vomiting
• Disseminated hives

If anaphylaxis occurs:

1. If an epinephrine autoinjector is available, the person should self-administer it immediately 1, 4
2. First aid providers should assist with autoinjector administration if needed 1
3. Activate emergency response system (call 911) 1

Special Situations

Stings to the Eye

• Must be evaluated by a trained medical professional 1
• Can lead to permanent vision loss if not properly treated 1, 5

Signs of Infection

Monitor for:

• Increased redness, swelling, or purulent discharge 3
• Seek medical attention if symptoms worsen or don't improve 3

Important Considerations

• Most bee stings are self-limiting and resolve within hours without treatment 6

• Honeybees have barbed stingers that remain in the skin, while wasps and hornets have smooth stingers and can sting multiple times 1

• Severe reactions can occur from:

  • Anaphylaxis (even from a single sting) 1, 6
  • Massive envenomation (20+ stings from large hornets or hundreds from honeybees) 1

• Rare complications to be aware of:

  • Skin and soft tissue necrosis if left untreated 7
  • Potential for foreign body granuloma formation 8

By following these guidelines, most bee stings can be managed effectively with minimal complications. The key is quick removal of the stinger, appropriate symptom management, and vigilance for signs of severe reactions requiring emergency care.