Summer is the perfect time for outdoor adventures—but it also means more encounters with buzzing insects. Most bee stings are painful but harmless, and with a little care, kids are usually back to playing in no time. The key is knowing when a sting is just a minor nuisance and when it needs medical attention.

What to Expect After a Bee Sting

A typical bee sting in a child may cause:

• Pain or a burning sensation
• Redness
• Mild swelling around the sting
• Itching

These symptoms usually improve within a few hours to a couple of days.

If you can see the stinger, gently scrape it away with the edge of a credit card or your fingernail. Wash the area with soap and water, apply a cool compress, and keep your child from scratching.

When Is It an Allergic Reaction?

While uncommon, some children can have a more serious allergic reaction that requires immediate medical care.

Call 911 right away if your child develops:

• Difficulty breathing or wheezing
• Swelling of the lips, tongue, or throat
• Trouble swallowing
• Hives spreading across the body
• Dizziness, fainting, or extreme weakness

These may be signs of anaphylaxis, a severe allergic reaction that is a medical emergency.

When Should You Call Your Pediatrician?

Contact your pediatrician if:

• Swelling continues to worsen after 24–48 hours.
• The sting appears infected (increasing redness, warmth, pus, or fever).
• Your child was stung multiple times.
• You’re unsure whether your child’s reaction is normal.

When in doubt, it’s always okay to call and ask.

Bee Smart This Summer

Help reduce the chance of stings by encouraging your little honey bee to:

• 🐝 Wear shoes while playing outside.
• 🌼 Avoid disturbing bee nests.
• 🍉 Keep food and sweet drinks covered outdoors.
• 👕 Wear light-colored clothing when spending time outside.

A little awareness goes a long way toward a safe, fun summer.

Join Our Hive

Whether your child has a bee sting, a summer illness, or you simply have questions, Dr. Margie Diaz-Ochu is here to help. At Bee Home Pediatrics, families receive personalized care, same-day sick visits, and direct access to their pediatrician when they need it most.

To schedule your free consultation or learn more about our membership-based practice, call 435-513-PEDS (7337) or visit us at 3538 S. Highland Drive, Millcreek, UT 84106. At Bee Home Pediatrics, we’re always here to help your little honey bee stay healthy, safe, and ready for the next adventure!