Proper First Aid for a Bee Sting
Posted on: 4 September 2019
A bee sting is one of the most painful experiences that you can have. Most of the times, it catches you when you are out and about, minding your business and not being keen on your surroundings. At other times, especially when you are cleaning up and decide to dismantle a hive, you practically invite the bees to hurt you. What you need to know about bees is that they do not sting unless they feel threatened in some way. If a bee stings you, they are probably protecting their hive. When they sting you, they release chemicals which attract other bees, and if you don't take cover, you could end up with hundreds of painful bites. A bee sting contains a liquid with enzymes such as melittin, apamin, adolapin, secapin and several others. When introduced to the body, it reacts by releasing histamine, which leads to the swelling. Here are common remedies for bee stings.
Baking Soda
The venom released with a bee sting is said to have a pH of between 5.0 and 5.5. The pH indicates an acidic solution, which is why your skin hurts when you are stung. Baking soda, on the other hand, is alkaline, and when introduced to the wound, it neutralises the acid and reduces the pain and swelling. Other commonly found basic items which you can use to treat a bee sting include meat tenderiser, toothpaste and a wet aspirin tablet. As long as the remedy is harmless to the skin and has a pH of more than 7, it will ease the pain of a bee sting.
Herbs and Oils
Another first aid remedy for a bee sting is the use of herbs and oils. Aloe vera is known to have a very soothing effect on the skin and is good for relieving pain. Lavender essential oil also has huge anti-inflammatory properties, and applying it to the wound prevents it from reddening and swelling.
Anti-Allergenic Treatment
Bee stings are just a little uncomfortable to people who are not allergic to bee venom. However, if anyone is allergic to bee venom, a sting can lead to serious consequences which could even include death. The best first aid to a person who is allergic to bee stings is administering an antihistamine.
Bee stings are painful to deal with. However, when the right first aid techniques are applied, the patient can heal and resume their normal activities within hours. The best thing to do is consult a first aid expert as soon as you are stung, as this will help you get immediate help. Consider taking some first aid courses so you are more prepared.
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