Bee Stings

What is a sting?

Honey bees, bumble bees, hornets, wasps, and yellow jackets can all sting. Over 95% of bee stings are by yellow jackets. These stings cause immediate painful red bumps. While the pain is usually better in 2 hours, the swelling may increase for up to 24 hours.

Multiple stings (more than 10) can cause vomiting, diarrhea, a headache, and fever. This is a toxic reaction related to the amount of venom received. It is not an allergic reaction, which would cause difficulty breathing, difficulty swallowing, passing out, or hives.

How can I take care of my child?

• Treatment

  If you see a little black dot in the bite, the stinger is still present (this only occurs with honey bee stings). Remove it by scraping it off. If only a small fragment remains, it will come out on its own. Then rub each sting for 20 minutes with a cotton ball soaked in a meat tenderizer solution. (Avoid in the area around the eye.) This will neutralize the venom and relieve the pain. If meat tenderizer is not available, apply an aluminum-based deodorant or a baking soda solution for 20 minutes. For persistent pain, massage with an ice cube for 10 minutes. Give acetaminophen immediately for relief of pain and burning.

• Prevention

  Some bee stings can be prevented by avoiding gardens and orchards and by not going barefoot. Insect repellents are not effective against these stinging insects.

When should I call my child's health care provider?

Call IMMEDIATELY (or call 911) if:

• Breathing or swallowing is difficult.

Call during office hours if:

• The swelling continues to spread after 24 hours.
• Swelling of the hand (or foot) spreads past the wrist (or ankle).
• You have other questions or concerns.