Bee or Wasp Sting

Stings can be from honeybees, bumblebees, hornets, wasps, or yellow jackets. More than 95% of stings are from yellow jackets. The venom causes an immediate, painful, red bump. Normal swelling at the site can increase for up to 24 hours after the sting. Give a dose of Benadryl (1 teaspoon per 22 pounds) and a dose of Tylenol or Motrin to help with pain (See Tylenol and Motrin dosing section for appropriate dose).

Anaphylaxis can be a serious life threatening event. If the child has respiratory distress with wheezing or difficulty breathing, the child needs to be seen in the office or emergency room. Associated symptoms may also include swelling of the lips and tongue, vomiting, diarrhea and difficulty swallowing.