- Calmly brush the insect away and leave the area.
- If the stinger remains in the skin, remove it by flicking your fingers at it or by scraping it off with something like a credit card. Do not use tweezers as this may further express the venom.
- Reduce swelling by applying a wet compress.
- Watch for any of the following symptoms that could indicate an allergic reaction requiring immediate medical attention:
- Itching, swelling or hives in areas other than the sting site
- Difficulty breathing and/or tightness in the chest
- Hoarse voice and swelling of the throat/tongue
- Dizziness or confusion
- Severe headache
- Stomach cramps, nausea, vomiting or diarrhea
- Shock, unconsciousness or cardiac arrest
- If you have been prescribed an epinephrine autoinjector, use it immediately and proceed to the emergency room or call 911.
- See an allergist for testing and treatment options
For more information on identifying types of stinging reactions, as well as testing and treatment options for insect sting allergy, visit http://www.atlantaallergy.com/what-we-treat/insect-sting-allergies.