Bee Sting Treatment: What to Do (and What to Avoid)

Calamine lotion is not an appropriate treatment for bee stings. If stung by a bee, remove the stinger by carefully scraping it off with a fingernail or blunt edge of a credit card. Wash the area with soap and water and apply a cold compress to reduce swelling. To relieve pain, take an over-the-counter pain reliever such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen. If you experience any severe symptoms such as difficulty breathing, wheezing, or a rapid heart rate, seek immediate medical attention.