How to Treat an Allergic Reaction to a Bee Sting

Bee stings are a common and mostly annoying occurrence during summer. However, some people may have a mild to severe allergy to bee venom, therefore it is important to understand how to help them if they are stung.

Things You'll Need

• Medical ID device
• Personal history/knowledge

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Instructions

• 1

  A person with severe bee sting allergies is well-advised to let people around them know and to wear a medical alert device. This is especially important if they are with a group of people they may not know well, for instance at an office picnic.

• 2

  If a person informs you they have a severe bee sting allergy, simply ask what is usually done should a reaction occur. Many people will carry an EpiPen which is an auto-injector of medication to treat severe allergies. It is important to know where this device is and read the simple instructions on how to use it.

• 3

  If a person's reaction is severe, 911 should always be called even if the EpiPen "works." Paramedics are a vital part of our first responder system and can provide additional care, aid and comfort, even if everything is fine.

• 4

  After a person uses their EpiPen, it is a good thing to remind them to replace it with a new one ASAP.

• 5

  Mild allergies are usually pretty simple to deal with and can be self-treated. Simply clean the area with soap and water, but DO NOT use a tweezer to remove an embedded stinger. Squeezing a stinger may actually release additional bee venom into the person.

• 6

  Keep the area clean, apply some antibiotic ointment and apply a simple dressing if needed. Some people may want to take an over-the-counter antihistamine to help with any itching or swelling.