What to do for stings

For Stings
Signs & Symptoms
Quick, sharp pain.
Swelling, itching, and redness at the sting site. These can occur beyond the sting site.
Raised bump (with or without pus).
Signs of a severe allergic reaction.


Causes
Insect stings.
Marine animals that sting include jellyfish, Portuguese Man-of-War, and sea nettles.


Treatment
Self-care treats mild reactions to stings. A severe allergic reaction needs immediate care. Symptoms of a severe allergic reaction usually happen soon after or within an hour of the sting. Persons with a severe allergic reaction to a sting in the past should carry an emergency kit, prescribed by a doctor. A medical alert tag should be worn to let others know of the allergy. Persons who have had severe reactions to bee or wasp stings should ask their doctors about allergy shots.