A bee sting is associated with stinging and burning pain, itching and swelling. The symptoms may subside in a few hours. On the other hand, if one is allergic to the toxin of the sting, an anaphylactic reaction may take place. The way the body responds to a bee sting depends up on the type of bee that has stung.
Symptoms And Reactions Of A Bee Sting
The commonly seen symptoms of a bee sting are:
- Immediate, intense burning pain at the site
- A red welt appears, and a white spot where the stinger punctured the skin can be seen.
- Inflammation occurs at the site.
- By and large, the swelling and pain subside in a few hours. However, some people develop a stronger reaction, such as, extreme redness, the swelling keeps increasing over the next day or two
- In some instances, the person may develop anaphylaxis. Anaphylaxis can be life threatening and needs emergency treatment. an anaphylactic reaction is seen as:
- Hive formation, intense itching, difficulty in breathing, weak pulse, nausea, swelling of the throat and tongue, giddiness, and loss of consciousness.
Bee Sting Home Remedy
- Ice: apply ice to the sting site. Ice numbs the area, and thereby, reduces the pain and discomfort considerably. It decreases the swelling by diminishing blood flow to the area.
- Toothpaste: toothpaste has been used effectively to alleviate be sting pain. It is alkaline that helps neutralize the venom. Some toothpaste contains glycerin which helps dry out the venom of bee stings.
- Papaya: grate some papaya and gently rub on to the affected area. Papaya contains a compound called papain that breaks down the proteins that the sting venom is made of.
- Baking Soda: make a paste of baking soda and water; it has proved to be exceedingly beneficial in managing bee stings. It promises instant relief.
- Essential Oils: essential oils are very effective to fight pain and burning related to the sting. Blend 2 drops of lavender essential oil with 1 spoon of honey and apply over the sting site. It will bring about immediate relief.
Treatment For Wasp Or Bee Sting
Here are some tips for treating a bee or wasp sting at home immediately after the insect sting or bite.
- The first thing for you to do is remove the stinger and the attached venom sac immediately; this prevents more venom from being discharged. Scrape the stinger out using a pair of tweezers. Try not to squeeze the venom sac that may liberate more venom.
- Wash the site well with soap and water.
- Apply a cold compress, it allays pain, swelling and burning.
- Thereafter, you may apply any of the home remedies that help manage the sting successfully.