How to Treat a Bee Sting

Bees are moneymakers for some people, but for others they are pure terror because of their feared stings. Bee stings can be annoying and painful, but they rarely cause any problems. The exception is if you are allergic to the venom, and then they can be fatal.

Difficulty:

Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• Antibacterial Soaps
• Tweezers
• Baking Soda
• Rubbing Alcohol
• Calamine Lotions
• Cold Compresses
• Insect Repellents

1. Remove the stinger as soon as possible. Use your fingers, tweezers - whatever works best.

2. Wash the site with soap and water, or clean it with alcohol.

3. Put ice or a cool, wet compress on the inflamed area.

4. Soothe the inflammation with a paste made from baking soda and water. Apply calamine lotion to help relieve itching and pain.

Tips & Warnings

• There are many home remedies for bee stings. They include sprinkling meat tenderizer on the sting area, using a slice of raw onion and using papaya slices.

• If you have a history of severe reactions to bee stings, or if you start feeling lightheaded, break out in hives, have nausea or vomiting, begin coughing and wheezing, or have other respiratory problems, seek medical attention immediately. This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice or treatment.