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What to Say in an Emergency

When Calling Emergency Services for Severe Allergic Reaction

Say exactly:

""I'm calling about my [age] child who was stung by a [insect type] and is having a severe allergic reaction. They [can/cannot] breathe normally and have [describe symptoms: hives, swelling, etc.]. I [have/haven't] given an EpiPen. We are at [your exact location/address].""

When Calling Doctor for Concerning Sting Reaction

Say exactly:

""My [age] child was stung by a [insect type] [time] ago. The area is [describe swelling/reaction] and they [are/aren't] having other symptoms. This [is/isn't] their first sting reaction.""

Step-by-Step Instructions

  • 1
    Remove Stinger and Assess Reaction
    • If stinger is visible, scrape it out with fingernail or credit card
    • Do NOT use tweezers - this can squeeze more venom into skin
    • Check for signs of allergic reaction: hives, swelling, breathing problems
    • Note the type of insect if possible
    • Move away from area to avoid additional stings
  • 2
    Provide Immediate Treatment
    • Wash sting site with soap and water
    • Apply cold compress or ice pack for 10-15 minutes
    • Give age-appropriate antihistamine (Benadryl) for itching and swelling
    • Apply calamine lotion or hydrocortisone cream to reduce itching
    • Keep child calm and watch for worsening symptoms
  • 3
    Monitor for Allergic Reactions
    • Watch for signs of severe reaction: difficulty breathing, widespread hives
    • Monitor for rapid swelling beyond the sting site
    • Check for signs of anaphylaxis: pale skin, rapid pulse, dizziness
    • Use EpiPen immediately if child has known severe allergy
    • Call 911 for any signs of severe allergic reaction
  • 4
    Manage Pain and Swelling
    • Give acetaminophen or ibuprofen for pain if needed
    • Continue cold compresses every few hours
    • Elevate stung area if possible to reduce swelling
    • Avoid scratching - keep fingernails short
    • Apply topical treatments as needed for comfort
  • 5
    Follow Up and Prevention
    • See doctor if reaction is severe or child has multiple stings
    • Watch for signs of infection: increasing redness, pus, red streaks
    • Consider allergy testing if this was a severe reaction
    • Discuss EpiPen prescription with doctor if indicated
    • Learn prevention strategies for future outdoor activities

Watch for Signs

Monitor your child for these symptoms:

🚩 Severe Allergic Reaction - Use EpiPen & Call 911

  • Difficulty breathing or wheezing
  • Swelling of face, lips, tongue, or throat
  • Widespread hives over body
  • Rapid pulse or dizziness
  • Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea with other symptoms
  • Feeling of impending doom
  • Loss of consciousness
  • Severe drop in blood pressure
  • Pale or blue skin color

💚 Normal Sting Reactions

  • Localized pain, redness, and swelling at sting site
  • Mild itching that improves with treatment
  • Swelling that stays near the sting area
  • Normal breathing and alertness
  • Reaction improves over 24-48 hours
  • No spreading hives or systemic symptoms

FAQs (Common Parent Questions)

"How do I know if my child is allergic to insect stings?"

Most children have normal local reactions (pain, redness, swelling at sting site). Allergic reactions involve symptoms beyond the sting site: widespread hives, breathing problems, or swelling of face/throat. Severe reactions require immediate medical attention.

"Should I remove the stinger with tweezers?"

No, use your fingernail or a credit card to scrape the stinger out. Tweezers can squeeze the venom sac and inject more venom into the skin.

"When should I give my child an EpiPen?"

Use an EpiPen immediately for any signs of severe allergic reaction: difficulty breathing, widespread hives, swelling of face/throat, or rapid pulse with dizziness. Don't wait to see if symptoms worsen.

"How long should I watch for allergic reactions?"

Most severe reactions occur within minutes to 2 hours of the sting. However, watch closely for at least 4-6 hours, and seek immediate care if any concerning symptoms develop.

"Can my child develop an allergy even if they've been stung before?"

Yes, allergies can develop at any time, even after previous stings with no problems. Each sting exposure can potentially trigger an allergic reaction in susceptible individuals.

Real Parent Tips

Real Parent Experiences

"My son's first bee sting caused huge swelling on his arm. The doctor said that was normal, but now we carry Benadryl everywhere just in case."

— Jennifer M., Ottawa

"I learned to scrape out stingers instead of pulling them. It really does make a difference in how much venom gets injected."

— David K., Vancouver

"After my daughter's severe reaction, we got an EpiPen and allergy testing. Knowing her specific allergies helps us be prepared."

— Maria S., Calgary
This guide is intended for quick reference and does not replace professional medical advice. Always consult a medical professional if uncertain.