Bee Stings

Bee stings are thought to be some of the most harmful of insect bites. They can cause everything from painful, non-serious responses to very severe allergic reactions.

Do your best to avoid bees.

Bees are part of the Hymenoptera family, along with wasps and ants. All bees are part of this group, including the typical bumblebee, honeybees and the "Africanized" bee, also known as the killer bee. These bees typically live in colonies, one sting can become several stings within a short period of time.

Chances are you'll know it if you're stung by a bee, but you may not know exactly what the little thing did to cause you so much discomfort. Basically, they're injecting your skin with their venom. The primary culprit is a substance called melittin, which is the most toxic component of bee venom. Melittin stimulates the nerve endings of the skin's pain receptors. This results in extreme, sharp pain, which eventually transitions to a dull ache.

After you've been stung, your first duty is to remove the stinger – and fast! Venom may continue to enter the skin as much as 60 seconds after you've been stung, so the quicker the stinger is removed, the better. Experts say that removing a stinger within 15 seconds of being stung may reduce the sting's severity. After you've removed it, thoroughly wash the wound with soap and water. Follow up with an application of an antibiotic ointment, such as Neosporin.

You may want to apply a soothing cold compress or an antihistamine product to relieve discomfort. Benadryl may be effective in minimizing reaction time, too. If the pain is quite severe, don't hesitate to take ibuprofen or acetaminophen for relief. In some cases, though, more severe symptoms may occur.

Symptoms of bee stings can be broken down into two categories: local and systemic. Local reactions affect only the part of the body that is actually stung, while systemic (or allergic) reactions may affect other parts of the body, as well.

If you're dealing with local reactions to your sting, you might experience:

• Pain, redness, itching or swelling at the site of the sting
• Development of a large local reaction (over four inches wide) within 12-36 hours of the sting
• Potential development of a bacterial skin infection within 12-36 hours, though this is rare (note that discerning between a bacterial skin infection and a localized skin irritation may be difficult – in this case, see a doctor)

If you're dealing with an allergic reaction, you may experience:

• Itchy skin or hives all over the body
• Mouth or throat swelling (or both)
• Wheezing
• Nausea and vomiting
• Shortness of breath
• Chest pain
• Anxiety
• Low blood pressure

Individuals suffering from a severe reaction may feel extremely weak and may event faint. It may become difficult to breathe, resulting in unconsciousness. Since a systemic reaction can prove fatal, it is crucial to seek medical assistance immediately if you experience any of the above-mentioned symptoms.

Short of sitting indoors all summer long or covering yourself up from head to toe when you do venture out, you may feel at a loss once you've suffered a sting. It can be a bit nerve-wracking stepping out for the first time after your first sting. Fortunately, just sticking to a few helpful tips can minimize your chances of a second encounter:

• Wear protective clothing. You don't have to walk around with a net over your head - just wearing light colored clothes will help. You may also want to wear long sleeves and loose, lightweight pants.
• Use insect repellent when you head outdoors, such as Bee Safe, a spray that is safe to use on the skin, clothing and on any area that needs protection. It's an environmentally safe product, to boot!
• Avoid using scented soaps, perfumes and lotions.
• Avoid areas where bees might be, such as sheds and outbuildings.
• Don't leave trash, food and beverages uncovered.
• Finally, listen for that familiar buzz! Once you hear it, you know to avoid the area.

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