Young children are definitely more susceptible to being stung by a bee. Since they play a lot especially outdoors in the garden, getting stung is a distinct possibility. A bee sting can be extremely painful and often leads to prolonged redness and swelling which lasts for a few days.
Unless your child has developed a severe allergic reaction which needs medical attention, it is possible to treat the bee sting at home with the help of some simple home remedies.
8 Home Remedies For Bee Stings In Children
Remove the Sting
The first step to treat a bee sting is to remove the sting from the surface of the skin along with its attached venom sac. This can be done by scraping the skin gently with the edge of a credit card or a pair of tweezers. Remove the sting very carefully. If the sac bursts, there is a possibility of the venom spreading to the other parts of the body.
Wash it Down
It is not possible to protect the child from pain. However, you can make him/her a lot more comfortable by washing down the sting. Use cold water and a mild antibacterial soap to wash down the injury in order to remove the venom.
Cold Compresses
A bee sting causes a lot of pain and swelling for the child. The area becomes tender and inflamed. In such cases, use ice or a cold compress to bring down the swelling. This is crucial especially in the first 24 hours. Keep using the cold compresses on your skin for as long as possible in order to keep the swelling in check.
Calamine Lotion
Most of us have calamine lotion at home. Apply this lotion immediately to the stung area. The calamine lotion soothes the sting, provides a cooling effect and helps to reduce the pain. The calamine lotion should be applied at least 4-5 times in a day.
Toothpaste
Toothpaste is a good home remedy for bee stings especially in young children. Toothpaste helps to reduce the abrasive effects of the bee sting and subsides the itching. The toothpaste also has properties that neutralize the venom, giving you a lot of relief.
Baking Soda
Another trick for minimizing the venom is to use baking soda. Make a thick paste using baking soda and water and apply this paste on the stung area after you have washed the site.
It will bring immediate relief to your child. Wipe it off after 20 minutes and follow this up with an ice pack or a cold compress.
Honey
Ironically, raw and pure honey too can be used to treat a bee sting. Honey has antiseptic properties that heal cuts, stings and other injuries.
Aloe Vera Gel
Pure aloe Vera gel can be used for most insect bites and injuries. It gives a cooling and soothing effect. Slather lots of aloe Vera gel on the site of the sting for immediate relief.
Washing the stung area with apple cider vinegar diluted in water is also quite effective in minimizing the pain from the bee sting.
Caution: Please use Home Remedies after Proper Research and Guidance. You accept that you are following any advice at your own risk and will properly research or consult healthcare professional.