Tip of the week: how to treat an insect sting

REMOVE THE STINGER. Wasps and hornets don’t leave stingers behind, but honeybees do. “If a honeybee nailed you,” you have about 20 seconds before all the venom is released, so try to get the

stinger out quickly. Scrape it out with a fingernail or, better yet, a credit card. Avoid squeezing, as that could burst open the venom sac. ICE AND MEDICATE. Pain and swelling can be

reduced by applying a cold pack. Also take an antihistamine and apply a hydrocortisone cream to reduce swelling and itching. You can apply the cream several times a day “until your symptoms

improve.” CONTAIN YOUR EMOTIONS. When children are stung, they need you to act as calmly as a doctor. Acknowledge the pain while treating the wound. If severe allergic symptoms occur, such

as swelling of the throat or tongue, “head to an ER right away.” SUBSCRIBE TO THE WEEK Escape your echo chamber. Get the facts behind the news, plus analysis from multiple perspectives.

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