What’s the buzz about bee stings?

When symptoms are mild and localized, you can usually manage treatment of a bee sting at home. Mild symptoms include sharp pain, swelling, redness around the sting site, and a welt where the sting occurred. Most mild reactions improve within a few hours to a couple of days with proper home care.

When stung, experts recommend avoiding pinching or squeezing the stinger, as that can release more venom into the body. Instead, scrape out the stinger with a fingernail or credit card, then clean the area with soap and water to prevent infection.

Applying a cold compress can help alleviate pain and reduce swelling. Over-the-counter medications, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, can help reduce discomfort, while antihistamines or hydrocortisone cream can help ease itching and inflammation.

“Keep the sting site clean and elevated if swollen, and closely monitor for any worsening symptoms over the next few days,” says Dr. Eric Strukel, medical director of Express Care.

In moderate reactions, the symptoms are similar to those of mild reactions, but they last longer. This includes burning pain, a welt, itching, flushing and swelling that worsens over the next few days.

For moderate reactions, monitor the symptoms closely — they typically resolve within a couple of days. In most cases, symptoms can be treated at home.

Severe (anaphylactic) reactions require immediate emergency medical attention. Some reactions that are considered severe include:

• Hives

• Difficulty breathing, wheezing or breathing fast

• Swelling of the throat, tongue or lips

• Tightness in the chest or throat

• Trouble swallowing, speaking or hoarse voice

• Rapid heartbeat or low blood pressure

• Dizziness

• Vomiting

• Blue or white lips

• Fainting or loss of consciousness

Though rare, some people are hypersensitive to bee stings, and this population is at risk for anaphylactic shock. These types of reactions can occur within 30 minutes.