It’s a warm summer day and you are out by the pool. After a peaceful time in the water, you hear a humming sound and then a subsequent painful feeling shooting up your arm. You were just stung by a wasp. With 7 million Americans allergic to bee stings, it is important to know what to do in case this situation arises. Some tips on avoiding bees include:
- Avoiding heavy floral perfumes and scents
- Wearing light color clothing without floral prints
- Preventing spills and seal sugary foods and drinks
However, for some unlucky few they are still going to get stung by a wasp or bee. Signs of a mild bee sting include pain, tenderness, itchiness, and swelling at the sting site. When this happens the following steps can be taken to treat the bite:
- Remove the stinger as soon as possible
- Wash the area with soap and water
- Apply a cold compress
- Apply hydrocortisone cream to ease the itching and redness
- If itching is bothersome take an oral antihistamine
- Avoid scratching the area
- Monitor in case symptoms worsen
In some rare cases, emergency medical attention maybe required. If the following symptoms begin to develop, seek a medical professional immediately:
- Hives, itchiness, and swelling over a large portion of the body
- Tightness in the chest
- Trouble breathing
- Swelling of the tongue or face
- Dizziness or feeling like you are about to pass out
Do not let the fear of bees ruin your summer. Take this new knowledge and go out and have fun!