Getting stung by a bee is actually a common occurrence in areas with a large population of bees. Still, this is not very common in other areas. However, it is important to remember that bee stings, no matter how uncommon, could hurt a lot and cause various symptoms and complications.
- Bee sting can be really painful, though this will also depend on the species of bee.
- Most people who are stung by a bee of any species will develop an allergic reaction. This reaction could be light to moderate but there are those who are also severely affected.
- In fact, a number of people die every year because of severe reactions against bee sting or venom allergy.
Bee Sting Infection Symptoms
The following are some of the possible symptoms of allergic reactions due to bee sting:
- Hives or swelling that spreads from the site of the sting
- Itchiness or itching all over the body
- Flushing, especially noticeable on the face
- Runny nose, or sneezing
- Stomach cramping,
- Watery or itchy eyes
- Shortness of breath, wheezing or coughing
- Swelling of the tongue, lips, or throat
- Vomiting
- Nausea
- Diarrhea
- Passing out or low blood pressure
- Lightheadedness
- Palpitations
- Restlessness or
- Metallic taste in the mouth
Infections will cause the patient to experience the following, aside from the symptoms listed above:
- Fever that could range from mild to high
- Chills
- Pus and swelling on the site of infection
- Headache
Bee Sting Infection Causes
- Bees are not very aggressive, especially away from their hive. However, they are very territorial and would quickly defend their nest. Thus, a lot of people who unknowingly comes a few feet from the hive are truly a target by these bees.
- The bee will sting the patient and inject venom and various materials into that victim’s body. Most of the bee species do not leave their stingers unto the patient’s skin but honeybees do.
- Allergic reactions could occur when the patient’s immune system reacts to the venom and materials from the sting.
- Infections occur when microorganisms breach the site of the sting.
Bee Sting Infection Treatment
- First, stay as far away as possible from the hive.
- Then, if the bee left a stinger, this should be removed using a dull edged object.
- Wash the area thoroughly with soap and water. This will help prevent infections.
- Apply cold compress and herbal medications on the sting site.
- Some solutions or mixtures can be used to stop the symptoms and also hasten treatment of the infection. Some of these are:
- Baking soda
- Meat tenderizer
- Ammonia solution