Nearly everyone has been stung by an insect at one time or another. Regardless of the culprit, most people agree that a sting is an unpleasant experience. Fortunately for most people the damage inflicted is only temporary pain. Only a very limited portion of the population (one or two people out of 1,000) is allergic or hypersensitive to bee or wasp stings.

   Stingers are effective weapons because they deliver venom that causes pain when injected into the skin.  The venom stimulates the nerve endings of pain receptors in the skin.  The result is a very painful sensation, which begins as a sharp pain that lasts a few minutes and then becomes a dull ache.  Even up to days later, the tissue may still be sensitive to the touch.

   The body responds to stings by liberating fluid from the blood to flush the venom components from the area, causing redness and swelling at the sting site.  If this is not the first time that the person has been stung by that species of insect, it is likely that the immune system will recognize the venom and enhance the disposal procedure.  This can lead to very large swelling around the sting site or in a whole portion of the body.  The area is quite likely to itch.  Oral and topical antihistamines should help prevent or reduce the itching and swelling.  Try not to rub or scratch the sting site, because microbes from the surface of the skin could be introduced into the wound and result in infection.

   When the sting is caused by a honey bee, the stinger usually remains in the skin when the insect leaves because the stinger is barbed.  Remove the stinger as quickly as possible because venom continues to enter the skin from the stinger for 45 to 60 seconds following the sting.  Much is written about the proper way to remove a bee stinger, but new information indicates that it doesn't matter how you get it out as long as it is removed as soon as possible.  After the stinger is removed, wash the wound and treat it.  Over-the-counter products or a cold compress can be used to alleviate the pain of a sting.  Aerosol or cream antihistamine preparations that contain skin coolant can also help. 

   A small percentage of the population is allergic to wasp, hornet or bee stings.  If you suspect that you or a family member might be allergic or is developing an allergy, go to a physician for testing.  Allergic reactions to stings can develop anywhere on the body and may include life threatening reactions such as hives, swelling, nausea, vomiting, abdominal cramps and headaches.  Life threatening reactions such as shock, dizziness, unconsciousness, difficulty breathing and laryngeal blockage resulting from swelling in the throat require immediate medical attention.  Symptoms can begin immediately following the sting or up to 30 minutes later and may last for hours.

HOW TO AVOID STINGS

• Keep your distance.  Stinging insects will attack if their home is disturbed.  Watch for nests in bushes, eaves, and attics.  If a hive or nest is too close to your home to avoid, destroy it or have a professional do it.

• When cooking and eating outdoors, be especially careful.  The smell of food attracts insects, especially yellow jackets.

• Trash containers attract insects; keep them clean and covered.

• Wear closed-toed shoes and avoid going barefoot.

• Avoid loose-fitting clothing that can trap insects between the material and your skin.

• Don't rely on insect repellent to keep away stinging insects; they are unaffected by it.

• Stay calm and quiet and move away slowly; gentle motions will not alarm the insect into stinging.