
When should you go to the doctor for a bee sting?
Seek prompt medical care if you've been swarmed by bees and have multiple stings. Make an appointment to see your doctor if: Bee sting symptoms don't go away within a few days. You've had other symptoms of an allergic response to a bee sting.
When should I be worried about a bee sting swelling?
Bee stings can cause pain, swelling, and change in skin color. If swelling lasts for more than 24 hours, people should not worry, as swelling can last up to 7 days. However, if it persists beyond that, they should contact a doctor.
How long after a bee sting can you have an allergic reaction?
Sometimes you may not experience a reaction until 4 hours or longer after the sting occurs. At that point you may begin to experience hives, fever, joint pain, swelling, and headache. Allergic reaction. An allergic reaction can occur in just minutes up to several hours after the sting.
How long should a bee sting hurt and be swollen?
Severe pain or burning at the site lasts 1 to 2 hours. Normal swelling from venom can increase for 48 hours after the sting. The redness can last 3 days. The swelling can last 7 days.
Why is my bee sting still swollen?
Swelling and/or itching may also occur, but the pain usually disappears over a few hours. In the so-called large local reaction to an insect sting, the swelling, redness, and pain may persist for up to a week. Areas adjacent to the site of the skin may also be involved in the large local reaction.
Does Benadryl help with bee stings?
Taking an antihistamine such as diphenhydramine (Benadryl) or a nonsedating one such as loratadine (Claritin) will help with itching and swelling. Take acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Motrin)for pain relief as needed. Wash the sting site with soap and water.
Do bee sting reactions get worse over time?
Generally, moderate reactions get better over a week. Having a moderate reaction doesn't guarantee that you'll have a more serious reaction next time a bee stings you. If your reactions keep getting worse every time you're stung, talk to a doctor.
What is a normal bee sting reaction?
A normal reaction sets off pain, swelling, and redness around the sting site. A large local reaction causes swelling that extends beyond the sting site. For example, a person stung on the ankle may have swelling of the entire leg. While it often looks alarming, it's usually no more serious than a normal reaction.