Yellow jacket and bee stings are painful but can typically be treated easily.
Getting stung by a yellow jacket or bee is a painful experience. Treating the injury immediately can reduce the pain, swelling and other potential complications associated with it. Most people do not have severe allergic reactions to these stings, but everyone who suffers a sting from one of these creatures can benefit from proper first aid knowledge.
Remove Stinger Quickly
When a yellow jacket or bee stings a person, the stinger often separates from the insect and is implanted into the skin like a splinter. Venom from honeybees can continue to enter the body through the stinger for two to three minutes, according to MedicineNet.com. The stinger should be removed immediately to reduce the amount of venom that reaches the system.
The hard edge of a credit card or the edge of a knife can be used to quickly remove the stinger from the skin. Carefully, but quickly, rub the edge over the protruding end of the stinger and it will pop out, stopping the flow of venom.
Clean, Cool And Cream
Wash the area of the sting with soap and water to remove any impurities and then place an ice pack on the sting to reduce swelling and decrease the impact of the sting on the surrounding tissue.
Apply hydrocortisone cream to the site of the sting to additionally decrease the severity of the sting, according to MedicineNet.com. A paste made of baking soda and water can be used as an alternative topical treatment to break down the bee venom.
Antihistamines
A dose of antihistamine can quickly stop the burning, itching and other symptoms associated with a sting. Antihistamine drugs such as diphenhydramine are available over the counter and are typically used for various anti-allergy conditions.
Anaphylaxis Treatment
In the event of a severe allergic reaction to a sting, a condition known as anaphylaxis can occur. This severe reaction can lead to complications in various parts of the body. It has a quick onset, sometimes within seconds, and can be life-threatening if not treated immediately.
An emergency call to 911 should be the first action. A common way to treat someone experiencing anaphylaxis is to inject him with epinephrine. Some people who are aware of their tendency to react this way to certain allergens will carry an epinephrine shot with them, often referred to as an "epi pen." If they are unable to inject themselves, the shot should go into the outer thigh. It can be administered through light fabric. Rub the area where the drug entered to help distribute it. Get the person in a lying position with feet elevated and stay with them until help arrives.
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