As long as you're not doing anything to provoke bees, the chances of getting stung are low, but still possible. Almost always this will not be life-threatening (unless you are very allergic to them), but they can cause infections and many other problems.

For those reasons, if you are stung by a bee (or wasp, hornet, etc.) it is important to take some steps to try and prevent any of this from happening.

First, if you are stung by a bee, they will leave behind a stinger. Do not try and just pull the stinger out, because that might release even more venom. Instead, you should try to just scrape it out gently with a blunt-edged object, as that is less likely to release any more venom.

Next, you need to wash the area of the sting gently and carefully with soap and water. Ideally, you should do this multiple times per day for a few days, or at least until the skin is healed. Again, this will help stave off infection.

After the area has been washed, you should apply an ice pack or wet wash cloth, and leave it on for a few minutes. After you have done that, you should apply a paste of baking soda and water, and leave that on for 15-20 minutes. Last, if the pain does get bad enough, take something to help relieve it.

These are just general guidelines. It should be noted that if symptoms get worse - large areas of swelling, shortness of breath, dizziness, fainting, or other serious symptoms - you should seek immediate medical attention, because all of those things could be a sign that you have had an allergic reaction.

Learn more about this author, Juan Leer.
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