“Bee” Aware of How to Treat Insect Stings

One of the few disadvantages of the return of warm weather is the return of bees, yellow jackets and wasps. Or, if you live in a tropical climate, they could be pests throughout the year. These critters fly where they please, and it’s no fun getting stung, especially for children. Most kids who need immediate medical attention are allergic to the sting or have been stung multiple times. If that’s the case, call 911 right away. Usually, however, children can get relief from basic first aid. 

The office of Kiddies' Pal Pediatrics is an expert in the field of pediatrics. We will gladly give you as much time as you need to tell us about any concerns you may have and receive clear explanations regarding your treatment options. 

If your non-allergic child gets stung, here’s how to treat it at home. 

Take out any stingers immediately; they include venom that seeps into his (or her) skin for a few seconds after penetration. A credit card or some tweezers can dislodge a stinger. Wash the site with soap and water. Wrap ice in a towel or cloth and put it on the site for 20 minutes every hour as needed. (Applying ice directly to the skin will damage it.) Hydrocortisone cream is useful in reducing swelling, itching and redness. 

Check the dosage directions on the package before giving your child an antihistamine (Benadryl or Claritin) to dampen swelling and itching. The same goes for giving your child acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Motrin) for pain. Call his pediatrician if the symptoms don’t disappear in two days. 

Check your child’s medical records for his most recent tetanus shot. If more than a decade has passed, he should get a booster within three days. Most bug stings need no further medical treatment. 

Preventative measures are the best ways to avoid another sting. Tell your child to wear protective clothing, avoid infested areas and use bug repellent. 

If you don’t know if your child is allergic to bee, wasp or yellow jacket stings because he’s never had one, talk to a dermatologist about allergy skin testing. If he is indeed allergic, he’ll know to seek immediate medical help and always carry two prescribed epinephrine injectors and know how to use them. He should also wear a medical alert necklace or bracelet that designates his allergy.