BEE STING

 

Symptoms | When to call | Homecare Advice

 

WHEN TO CALL YOUR DOCTOR FOR BEE STING

Call 911 Now (you may need an ambulance) If

  • Passed out (fainted)
  • Wheezing or difficulty breathing
  • Hoarseness, cough or tightness in the throat or chest
  • Swollen tongue or difficulty swallowing
  • Abdominal pain or vomiting
  • Previous life-threatening reaction (not just hives or swelling) to sting. (Note: anaphylaxis usually starts within 20 minutes, and always by 2 hours following a sting.)
  • Use First Aid Advice for Anaphylaxis.

Call Your Doctor Now (night or day) If

  • You feel weak or very sick

  • Hives or swelling elsewhere on the body
  • More than 20 stings
  • Sting inside the mouth

Call Your Doctor Within 24 Hours (between 9am and 4pm) If

  • You think you need to be seen
  • Sting looks infected (red streaking from the sting area, yellow drainage) (Note: skin infection doesn't start until at least 24-48 hours after the sting. Any redness in the first 24 hours is due to venom.)
  • Swelling is huge (e.g. larger than 6 inches; entire hand is swollen)

Call Your Doctor During Weekday Office Hours If

  • You have other questions or concerns

Self Care at Home If

  • Uncomplicated bee, wasp, or yellow jacket sting and you don't think you need to be seen

Disclaimer: This information is not intended be a substitute for professional medical advice. It is provided for educational purposes only. You assume full responsibility for how you choose to use this information.

Adult SelfCareNavigator. Copyright © 2000-2004 David Thompson, M.D. FACEP

Reviewed 8/2004

Revised 8/2003

Revised 8/2004

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