💡 How-To
How to Treat a Bee Sting or Spider Bite
A bee sting or spider bite can range from a minor nuisance to a medical emergency. Here's how to treat it at home " — and when to call 911.
Bee Sting: First Aid Steps
- Remove the stinger " — scrape it out with a flat edge (credit card, fingernail). Don't squeeze with tweezers " — it pushes more venom in
- Wash the area " — soap and water
- Apply a cold compress " — 10 minutes on, 10 minutes off to reduce swelling
- Take an antihistamine " — Benadryl or Zyrtec for itching and swelling
- Apply hydrocortisone cream " — or make a paste of baking soda and water
Spider Bite: First Aid Steps
- Wash the wound " — soap and water
- Apply a cold compress " — wrapped in cloth, not directly on skin
- Elevate the area " — if on an arm or leg
- Take OTC pain reliever " — ibuprofen or acetaminophen
- Watch for infection " — increasing redness, warmth, pus, red streaks
When to Go to the ER
| Symptom | Urgency |
|---|---|
| Difficulty breathing or swallowing | Call 911 " — anaphylaxis |
| Swelling of face, lips, or throat | Call 911 |
| Dizziness or rapid heartbeat | Call 911 |
| Nausea, vomiting, or cramps | Go to ER |
| Large area of swelling (spreading) | Go to ER |
| Red streaks from the bite | Go to ER " — possible infection |
Brown recluse & black widow: If you suspect a brown recluse (violin-shaped marking) or black widow (red hourglass) bite, go to the ER immediately. These bites can cause tissue damage, muscle cramps, and systemic reactions.
⚠️ What NOT to do:
- Don't squeeze the stinger " — it releases more venom
- Don't apply a tourniquet " — it cuts off circulation
- Don't try to suck out the venom " — it doesn't work
- Don't apply ice directly to the wound " — use a cloth barrier
- Don't scratch the bite " — it increases infection risk
The bottom line: Most bee stings and spider bites heal at home with basic first aid: remove stinger, wash, cold compress, antihistamine. Seek emergency care for difficulty breathing, facial swelling, or signs of severe allergic reaction. Keep Benadryl in your first aid kit " — it's your best friend for minor stings.