Bee stings are a common outdoor nuisance.
In most cases, bee stings are just annoying, and home treatment is all that's necessary to ease the pain. But if you're allergic to bee stings or you get stung numerous times, you may have a more-serious reaction that requires emergency treatment.
Symptoms
Mild reaction
Most of the time, bee sting symptoms are minor and include:
- Instant, sharp burning pain at the sting site
- A red welt at the sting area
- Slight swelling around the sting area
In most people, the swelling and pain go away within a few hours.
Moderate reaction
Some people who get stung by a bee or other insect have a bit stronger reaction, with signs and symptoms such as:
- Extreme redness
- Swelling at the site of the sting that gradually enlarges over the next day or two
Moderate reactions tend to resolve over five to 10 days.
A severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) to bee stings is potentially life-threatening and requires emergency treatment.
Signs and symptoms of anaphylaxis include:
- Skin reactions, including hives and itching and flushed or pale skin
- Difficulty breathing
- Swelling of the throat and tongue
- A weak, rapid pulse
- Nausea, vomiting or diarrhea
- Dizziness or fainting
- Loss of consciousness
Bee sting venom contains proteins that affect skin cells and the immune system, causing pain and swelling around the sting area.
In people with a bee sting allergy, bee venom can trigger a more-serious immune system reaction.
Lifestyle and home remedies
In case of an allergic reaction, self-medication is not allowed, call an ambulance, the patient must be placed in the clinic!
Please note that these methods presented in the article are recommended only for clinical cases where the bite causes a mild reaction.
The following steps may help ease the swelling and itching often associated with large local reactions:
- If you can, remove the stinger as soon as possible
- Wash the affected area with soap and water.
- Apply a cold compress.
In the case of a moderate reaction, first aid is exactly the same as for a mild form (removing the sting, bathing with soap, applying a cold compress).
In this form, you can take a pain reliever and apply lotion, cream to relieve redness or swelling.
If you have a bite on your foot or arm, lift it up.
Despite the itching sensation, try not to scratch the bite site.
Source:
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/bee-stings/symptoms-causes/syc-20353869
