What should I do if I get stung by a bee?
Nov 05, 2021
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Yan Min
Introduction
For bee stings, first examine the sting site to determine whether the stinger remains embedded in the skin; if so, use tweezers to carefully remove any broken stinger fragments. Subsequently, extract the venom using a breast pump or cupping therapy. If pain is pronounced, administer a subcutaneous injection of 3 mL of a 1% emetine hydrochloride aqueous solution mixed with 2% lidocaine at the proximal and surrounding areas of the sting site—this typically results in rapid reduction of swelling and pain relief.
Treatment Following a Bee Sting:
1. Initially, inspect the sting site for any retained stinger embedded in the skin. If present, carefully remove the broken stinger using tweezers. Subsequently, extract venom using a breast pump or cupping therapy.
2. For stings by wasps (e.g., yellow jackets), whose venom is alkaline, apply diluted acetic acid topically. For honeybee stings—whose venom is predominantly acidic—apply a wet compress of 5–10% sodium bicarbonate solution locally, or wash the area with soap and water.
3. Dissolve Jide-Sheng snakebite tablets in boiling water to form a paste, then apply it around the wound.
4. For significant pain, inject 3 mL of a 1% emetine hydrochloride solution mixed with 2% lidocaine subcutaneously at the proximal and surrounding areas of the sting site; this provides rapid relief from swelling and pain.
5. In cases of systemic reactions or marked local erythema, edema, or blistering, oral antihistamines—such as levocetirizine or ebastine (one tablet daily)—may be administered. If symptoms remain severe, short-term oral corticosteroid therapy may be considered—for example, prednisone 30 mg taken as a single morning dose for 3–5 consecutive days.
