Before any sting treat can be treated, it's important to determine where the sting came from. Wasps, hornets, yellow jackets and bees (the most common stinging insects found in the yard and garden) vary in the kind of toxin they inject and how they sting. Pollinator.com suggests most people are not stung by a bee at all but rather a wasp or another insect native to the area. The easiest way to tell the difference between a wasp and bee is by looking. Wasps are narrow-waisted and shiny while the bee is robust and fuzzy.
Wasps, hornets or yellow jackets sting to paralyze their prey. They can sting multiple times as their stingers remain with them and not in their victim. Yellow jackets don't do an overabundance of pollinating, their focus is on worms and other insects.
Honey Bees are Pollinators
The fuzzy honey bee is often as feared as a wasp or yellow jacket. Honey bees usually only sting when handled or stepped on. They are protected in some areas of the world because of the important role they play in pollinating.
Honey bees have barbed stingers which are attached to the bee's digestive system. The stinger is torn from the bee, causing its death. The victim is left with the stinger hooked in their skin.
First Step in Treating a Honey Bee Sting
Rarely will a honey bee sting, but if they do the stinger must be scratched out with the venom gland intact. Pest Control Canada suggests using a blunt edged object such as a dull knife or credit card immediately following the sting. The stinger should not be pulled out between two fingers as more venom will be released into the system allowing for further irritation.
Stings Can Result in Anaphylactic Shock
For people with severe allergies to one or various venoms, anaphylactic shock (restricted airways) can be fatal. If a medical professional has confirmed a patient's allergy to wasp or bee stings, they may have prescribed the use of an Epipen(TM) or similar kit. Victims should report to a medical clinic or hospital after use of such a treatment to ensure they are no longer at risk. Allergic reactions can occur anywhere from 10 minutes to 20 hours after the initial attack.
Allergic Reactions Requiring Medical Aid
More often than not, a wasp or bee sting will be an irritant and nothing more. A pharmacist or doctor can recommend an antihistamine for minor reactions. The following symptoms do require medical attention:
- hives
- swelling of limbs
- joint pain
- tightness in the throat or chest
- wheezing or abnormal breathing
- dizziness
- fainting
- nausea or vomiting
- persistent pain or swelling
Pest Control Canada recommends that after being stung, the victim should lie down and not be moved. Lower the area affected (arm or leg). Ice should be applied directly to the sting. A wide cloth tourniquet should be tied between the sting site and the heart (two fingers should fit under the band) and released after five minutes. Medical attention should be sought immediately if a sting happens in the mouth or nose as well. Swelling may occur that can block airways.
Infection from Stings
After a sting has occurred (and the venom gland removed if stung by a honey bee) the area should be treated as follows to avoid infection:
- wash gently with soap and water several times a day until healed
- apply an ice or cold pack wrapped in cloth for three to five minutes
- baking soda and water paste applied for 15 minutes
- Pest Control Canada recommends acetaminophen for pain
Eliminating Wasp and Hornet Nests
A variety of pest control products are available that will eliminate nests in the yard. Follow the product instructions and use them at night when the nest population is at rest. For above ground nests, never stand under the product spray or foam and have an escape plan. The following evening, double check that the nest is not active, then tear it down with a long stick or broom. If occupants are still buzzing around, treat the nest again; do not attempt to remove it. Wasps also build ground nests.
Bee Hives Aren't Always a Threat
Most bee hives can be left alone. Humans, as with all nature, require bees for survival. If a bee hive must be removed, seek professional assistant. Bee hives are not as simple to remove as a wasp or hornet nest.
Enjoying warm summer months without the fear of stinging insects is possible by being aware of what's buzzing around and learning what can or can't cause harm.
Sources:
Pestcontrolcanada.com, "Bee, Wasp and Hornet Stings," (accessed June 2, 2010)
Pollinator.com, "Haaalp, I've been Stung by a Bee," (accessed June 2, 2010)
Lori Clark - Lori received her diploma in Writing for Children and Teenagers from the Institute of Children's Literature. She is completing an adult ...
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