Unlike many other insect venoms, we have a relatively good idea of the percentage breakdown of the venom of your average bee. We’ll start with the venom about which we know the most – that of bees. The range of compounds is far too vast to detail every single one – but we can examine some of the major constituents in bee, wasp, hornet and ant venom. You could be forgiven for thinking that it must be a relatively simple company of chemicals that makes up the painful sensation of a bee or wasp sting, but in fact a hugely complex mixture of all sorts of compounds – proteins, peptides, enzymes, and other smaller molecules – go into a small amount of venom. If needed, position the person to prevent choking on vomit.Insect venoms are complicated. Really complicated.Loosen tight clothing and cover the person with a blanket.This is usually done by pressing the autoinjector against the thigh and holding it in place for several seconds. Ask whether you should help inject the medication. Ask whether the injured person is carrying an epinephrine autoinjector (EpiPen, Auvi-Q, others).Take these actions immediately while waiting for medical help: Swelling of the lips, face, eyelids or throat.When to seek emergency careĬall 911 or your local medical emergency number if a child is stung by a scorpion or if anyone is having a serious reaction that suggests anaphylaxis, even if it's just one or two signs or symptoms: Seek medical care if the swelling gets worse, the site shows signs of infection or you don't feel well. Take a nonprescription pain reliever as needed.Options include nonprescription cetirizine, fexofenadine (Allegra Allergy, Children's Allegra Allergy), loratadine (Claritin).

Take an anti-itch medicine (antihistamine) by mouth to reduce itching.Do this several times a day until your symptoms go away. Apply to the affected area calamine lotion, baking soda paste, or 0.5% or 1% hydrocortisone cream.If the injury is on an arm or leg, raise it.Apply a cloth dampened with cold water or filled with ice to the area of the bite or sting for 10 to 20 minutes.Gently wash the area with soap and water.Move to a safe area to avoid more bites or stings.To treat a mild reaction to an insect bite or sting:

Hornet sting kin reaction