Bee stings can be extremely painful. While bees are not aggressive in most cases, you may still catch yourself in an unpleasant encounter with one if you’re spending time outdoors. If you do catch yourself getting stung by a bee, it is important to know how to respond to reduce your discomfort. This article will review how to heal a bee sting quickly if you are stung this fall.
Bee stings are a common cause of urgent care visits, even in the fall. If you’re stung by a bee, visit AFC Urgent Care Bound Brook for same-day care. Our board-certified medical providers are experts in treating bee stings to help you stay comfortable and heal quickly. Simply walk in when it’s convenient, or save your spot using the button below.
Why Are Bee Stings So Painful?
Bees are relatively harmless insects. However, they do sometimes, unfortunately, sting humans if we get in their way. Bee stings are very painful, despite their small size, because their stingers have barbs and release venom. This venom causes an immune response which can lead to pain and swelling at the sting site. In some cases, people are allergic to bee stings and require emergency care.
How to Reduce Discomfort Caused by a Bee Sting
If you are stung by a bee, it is important to know how to properly react and care for the sting to prevent further discomfort. Firstly, if you are allergic to bees, you need to call 911 to get emergency care. However, if you’re not allergic, removing the stinger from your skin is the first step. This will stop the stinger from releasing venom into your skin. Secondly, apply a cold compress to numb the area and reduce swelling. Using a cream like hydrocortisone cream during the healing process can help reduce itching and inflammation, however, bee sting symptoms should resolve on their own within a few days.
Symptoms of an Allergic Reaction to Watch Out For
Allergies to bees are actually more common than you may think. If you’re allergic to bees, always be sure to carry your Epipen as a precaution. If you’re not sure if you’re allergic because you’ve never been stung, keep an eye out for symptoms like swelling of the face, mouth and throat. Itching in the mouth and trouble breathing are also very common symptoms of a bee sting. Always call 911 if you think you’re having an allergic reaction to a bee sting for emergency care.
Visit AFC Bound Brook for Insect Sting Treatment
If you’re stung by a bee and experiencing discomfort, don’t panic. Bee stings are painful, and symptoms can last for a few days. You can manage discomfort with icing and OTC medications to reduce itching. If you notice signs of an allergic reaction immediately after being stung, always call 911.
At AFC Urgent Care Bound Brook, our walk-in clinic is able to provide supportive care for insect bites. This includes management for discomfort and swelling; however, you should always call 911 if you think you’re having an allergic reaction from a sting. Our walk-in clinic makes it easy to receive prompt care for insect stings. Simply walk in when it’s convenient. We’re open 7 days a week! To learn more, give the clinic a call at (732) 469-3627.