Bee sting insect sting — symptoms, treatment, talk to a doctor online

What is bee sting?

Bee, wasp, and hornet stings cause local pain and swelling from injected venom. Severe allergic reactions (anaphylaxis) affect about 3% of adults with insect sting allergy and can be life-threatening.

Most stings resolve with basic care. People with known severe allergies should carry an EpiPen.

Do I have bee sting? Common signs

If most of these describe what you're experiencing, telehealth may be a good next step:

Sharp pain at sting site Red bump with white center Local swelling Itching Sometimes extensive local reaction (>10cm) Anaphylaxis: difficulty breathing, throat tightness, hives all over, dizziness, vomiting — emergency Often clear within hours

Here's how it actually works

Tell us what's going on5-minute online intake covers your symptoms, history, and any photos.

A clinician reviewsLicensed in your state. Reviews your case and asks anything needed.

Rx to your pharmacyIf treatment is appropriate, the prescription goes to the pharmacy you choose.

What causes it

Injection of venom by bee, wasp, hornet, or yellow jacket sting.

Is it contagious?

No.

If you know you're allergic, the EpiPen lives ON YOU — not in the car, not in the kitchen drawer. Anaphylaxis kills in minutes.

Can it be treated online?

Routine sting is well-suited to telehealth advice. Anaphylaxis is a 911 emergency. Extensive reactions, signs of infection, multiple stings — may need in-person care.

How bee sting is treated

Remove stinger by scraping (not squeezing). Ice for pain and swelling. NSAIDs or acetaminophen. Topical hydrocortisone. Antihistamines for itching/local swelling. EpiPen + 911 for anaphylaxis. Allergy testing and immunotherapy for known severe allergy.

Self-care while you wait

Remove stinger by scraping with credit card edge
Cool compresses
Elevation if extremity stung
OTC antihistamines
Hydrocortisone cream
Acetaminophen or ibuprofen for pain
Tetanus check if not up to date
Watch for delayed reactions over hours

When to skip telehealth and seek emergency care Anaphylaxis: difficulty breathing, throat tightness, widespread hives, dizziness, vomiting, fainting — use EpiPen if available and call 911 immediately. Multiple stings (>20) can be toxic — emergency. Signs of infection (red streaks, fever) — urgent care.

How long does it last?

Local reaction: hours to days. Anaphylaxis can be rapid (minutes) and life-threatening.

Frequently asked questions

How do I know if I'm allergic?

Allergy testing if you've had systemic reaction (hives all over, not just at site, breathing trouble).

Should I carry an EpiPen?

If you've had anaphylaxis to bee sting — yes, always.

Does immunotherapy work?

Yes — about 97% effective for bee/wasp allergy. Years of injections, but durable.

Why scrape the stinger?

Squeezing can inject more venom. Scrape sideways with edge of card or fingernail.

What if I get stung many times?

20+ stings can cause toxic reaction (similar to venom overdose). Hundreds of stings can be fatal. Urgent care needed.

This page is for general information only — not a substitute for individual medical advice. A licensed clinician reviews every intake submitted through PrescriberNow before any prescription is issued. If you're experiencing a medical emergency, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room.

Bee sting
(insect sting)