As a busy mom, the last thing you want is to be dealing with hornet and bee stings. However, these stinging insects are a common problem during the warm months, and they can cause serious discomfort, swelling, and even allergic reactions. To help you stay prepared, here’s a busy mom’s guide to preventing and treating hornet and bee stings.
Prevention
- Avoid wearing bright colors, floral prints, and perfumes as they attract bees and hornets.
- Keep food covered and dispose of trash properly, as these attract bees and hornets.
- If you’re in an area with a lot of stinging insects, try to stay calm and still. Rapid movements can attract the attention of nearby bees or hornets.
- When outside, wear long sleeves and pants to cover as much skin as possible.
- Keep windows and doors closed to prevent bees and hornets from entering your home.
Treatment
- If you or a family member has been stung, remove the stinger as soon as possible. This will help to reduce the amount of venom released into your skin. We discuss how to remove the stinger below
- Clean the affected area with soap and water to remove any bacteria or dirt.
- Apply a cold compress to the area to help reduce swelling and discomfort.
- Take over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, to manage pain.
- If you experience any severe symptoms, such as difficulty breathing or swelling of the face, seek medical attention immediately.
It’s also a good idea to keep an epinephrine auto-injector (such as an EpiPen) on hand if you have a history of severe allergic reactions to bee and hornet stings.
How to remove the stinger
Removing a bee stinger as quickly as possible is important to reduce the amount of venom that’s released into your skin. To remove the stinger, follow these steps:
- Locate the stinger: The stinger will look like a black dot and will be located at the site of the sting.
- Scrape the stinger out: Using a flat object, such as a credit card or the edge of a fingernail, gently scrape the stinger out in a side-to-side motion. Do not use tweezers, as this can squeeze more venom into the skin.
- Wash the affected area: Clean the area with soap and water to remove any bacteria or dirt that may have entered the skin.
It’s important to note that bee stingers have barbed tips, so they often remain embedded in the skin after the bee has flown away. If the stinger is not removed within a few minutes, it will continue to release venom into the skin, causing more discomfort and swelling. If you’re allergic to bee stings, seek medical attention immediately, as even a small sting can cause a severe reaction.
Conclusion
Hornet and bee stings are a common problem for busy moms during the warm months. By taking simple precautions and being prepared to treat stings, you can reduce your risk of being stung and minimize any discomfort or adverse reactions. Stay safe, and enjoy the great outdoors!
