What is the first aid treatment for a bee sting?

First Aid Treatment for Bee Stings

The most important first aid measure for a bee sting is to remove the stinger quickly, regardless of method (scraping or pinching), and then clean the area with soap and water. 1, 2

Immediate Management

1. Remove the stinger quickly:

   • Remove the stinger as fast as possible - the method doesn't matter (scraping or pinching) 1
   • Speed is critical as venom continues to be injected as long as the stinger remains in the skin
   • Bees leave their barbed stinger in the skin after stinging, while wasps and hornets can sting multiple times 3

2. Clean the area:

   • Wash the sting site with soap and water 2
   • This helps prevent secondary infection

3. Reduce pain and swelling:

   • Apply a cold compress or ice pack to the area (place a thin barrier between ice and skin) 4, 2
   • Elevate the affected limb if significant swelling is present 2
   • Consider oral acetaminophen for pain control 2
   • Apply topical corticosteroids to reduce inflammation 2
   • Use oral antihistamines to relieve itching 2

Monitoring for Complications

Local Reactions

Most bee stings cause only local reactions with:

• Pain
• Redness
• Swelling
• Itching

These typically resolve within a few hours without treatment 3

Watch for Signs of Infection

Monitor the site for 48-72 hours for signs of:

• Increasing redness and warmth
• Increasing pain
• Purulent drainage
• Spreading redness beyond the immediate bite area 2

Watch for Signs of Severe Allergic Reaction

Seek immediate medical attention if any of these symptoms develop:

• Difficulty breathing
• Swelling of lips, eyelids, or tongue
• Dizziness or fainting
• Rapid heartbeat
• Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea
• Hives or widespread rash 5, 3

Emergency Management of Allergic Reactions

If signs of a severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) occur:

• Administer epinephrine immediately if available (0.3-0.5 mg intramuscularly into the anterolateral thigh for adults) 2, 5
• Call emergency services (911)
• Lay the person flat and elevate legs if possible
• If breathing is difficult, allow them to sit up but not stand

Prevention of Future Stings

• Wear protective clothing (long sleeves, pants) especially during dusk and dawn
• Use DEET-containing repellents (10-30%)
• Avoid bright colors and strong scents
• Use screens on windows and doors
• Remove nests and standing water from surroundings 2

Special Considerations

• Individuals with a history of systemic reactions should carry self-injectable epinephrine and know how to use it 2, 6
• Consider medical identification jewelry for those with known bee sting allergies 2
• Referral to an allergist-immunologist is recommended for those who have experienced systemic reactions 2, 6