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Suggest Treatment To Reduce Swelling After A Bee Sting

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Posted on Thu, 17 Jul 2014
Question: I was stung by a wasp 2 days ago, I now have swelling. What should I do?
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Answered by Dr. Michelle Gibson James (19 minutes later)
Brief Answer:
need to use an antihistamine

Detailed Answer:
HI, thanks for using healthcare magic

The sting can result in an allergic reaction due to the secretion of venom.
Allergic reactions can be immediate or delayed, though immediate reactions are more common.

The treatment varies slightly according to the severity of the reaction. In severe reactions (decreased blood pressure, increased pulse, hives, difficulty breathing) , hospital treatment is necessary.

Where there is only swelling and rash, you can treat at home by the use of oral antihistamines such as benadryl. In addition, if the area is painful, you can use paracetamol, naproxen or ibuprofen to help.
If the severity of the reaction worsens, then you would need to seek medical attention.

If you haven't had a tetanus shot in the last 10 yrs, you also need to consider contacting your doctor about a booster.

I hope this helps, feel free to ask any other questions
Note: For more detailed guidance, please consult an Internal Medicine Specialist, with your latest reports. Click here..

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
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Answered by
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Dr. Michelle Gibson James

General & Family Physician

Practicing since :2001

Answered : 16808 Questions

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Suggest Treatment To Reduce Swelling After A Bee Sting

Brief Answer: need to use an antihistamine Detailed Answer: HI, thanks for using healthcare magic The sting can result in an allergic reaction due to the secretion of venom. Allergic reactions can be immediate or delayed, though immediate reactions are more common. The treatment varies slightly according to the severity of the reaction. In severe reactions (decreased blood pressure, increased pulse, hives, difficulty breathing) , hospital treatment is necessary. Where there is only swelling and rash, you can treat at home by the use of oral antihistamines such as benadryl. In addition, if the area is painful, you can use paracetamol, naproxen or ibuprofen to help. If the severity of the reaction worsens, then you would need to seek medical attention. If you haven't had a tetanus shot in the last 10 yrs, you also need to consider contacting your doctor about a booster. I hope this helps, feel free to ask any other questions