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Bee, wasp, hornet, or yellow jacket sting

Also called: Bee sting, wasp sting, hornet sting, yellow jacket sting

A sudden, sharp pain followed by a red, swollen, itchy spot. Most stings heal in a few days, but some people have a dangerous allergic reaction that needs 911.

TypeInsect sting
Usually lastsA few hours to days
EmergencyTrouble breathing or throat swelling

Overview

Honey bees leave their stinger in the skin. Wasps, hornets, and yellow jackets don't, and can sting many times.

Large local reactions (swelling across a whole arm) are common and not dangerous. Reactions in other parts of the body (hives, wheezing) can be life-threatening.

Symptoms

Common signs:

  • Bug bite or sting
  • Red, warm, swollen skin at the sting
  • Sharp, burning pain

Less common

  • Itching
  • Swelling that spreads for 1 to 2 days

When to get medical care

Call 911Trouble breathing, wheezing, throat or tongue swelling, hives all over, dizziness, fainting, or many stings at once.
Get care todayA sting inside the mouth or throat, or swelling that keeps spreading after 2 days.
See a doctor soonSigns of infection: more redness, warmth, or pus, or you've had a severe reaction before.

Causes

Venom injected by the stinger.

Who is more likely to get it

  • Outdoor work
  • Being near nests or garbage
  • Past severe reaction

Possible complications

Diagnosis

Most stings don't need a visit.

Questions you may be asked

  • Past reactions to stings

The exam

A skin check.

Tests

Tests, if needed:

  • Allergy testing: After a severe reaction, to see if allergy shots can help.

Treatment

Home care eases most stings.

Self-care

  • Scrape the stinger out: use a fingernail or card, not tweezers
  • Wash with soap and water
  • Use a cold pack: 10 minutes at a time
  • Raise the area to limit swelling

Medicines

Medicines that may help:

MedicineHelps withGood to know
Pain relievers
Pain
Antihistamines and creams
Itch and swelling
Epinephrine auto-injector (prescription)
Severe allergic reactionsUse, then call 911.

OwieClear doesn't give doses: follow the label or your healthcare professional. Medicine names here are examples, not a full list.

If you've had a severe reaction, carry 2 epinephrine auto-injectors and ask about allergy shots.

Prevention

To avoid stings:

  • Stay calm and move away from nests
  • Cover food and drinks outdoors
  • Wear shoes in grass

Which doctor treats this

  • Urgent care or the ER can treat it first. For minor problems, your primary care provider can help.

Back to school, work, or sports

  • Most people can go to school or work. Keep the wound clean and covered.
  • Avoid pools and hot tubs until the skin heals.

Children, pregnancy, and older adults

  • Children: Watch closely for hives or breathing trouble.

Outlook

Most stings heal quickly. Epinephrine and 911 save lives in severe reactions.

Getting ready for your visit

Bring a list of your symptoms and medicines.

Questions to ask

  • Should I carry epinephrine?
  • Would allergy shots help me?

Research studies

Research studies test new ways to find and treat health problems. Some are looking for volunteers. Talk with your doctor before joining one.

Search ClinicalTrials.gov for studies on Bee, wasp, hornet, or yellow jacket sting

Sources

Last updated 2026-11-12.