How To Treat An Insect Sting In The Skin

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1. Step 2: Make yourself comfortable

   Sit down with your stung limb in a rested position

2. Step 3: Brush sting off

   Now if the sting is still in the skin and visible scrape or brush it off sideways. Use your fingernail or a hard object with a blunt edge, like the corner of a credit card.

3. Step 4: Apply cold pad or an ice pack

   To make a cold pad, use a towel or cloth that has been dipped in very cold water, wrung out and folded into a pad.

4. Alternatively you can use an ice pack or a sealed packet of frozen peas wrapped in a thin towel.

5. Don't use the ice pack for more than 10 minutes at a time and replace when necessary.

6. Step 5: Elevate the stung limb

   Now if possible place the injured limb in a slightly raised position as this may help reduce the build up of swelling in the tissues around the sting.

7. Step 6: Use a sting cream

   You can use an antihistamine cream that has been recommended by your pharmacist. This will help to reduce inflammation and pain.

8. If swelling worsens and pain persists, seek urgent medical advice. Red, blotchy skin rash anywhere on the body, difficulty in breathing, swelling of the tongue and throat are signs of an allergic reaction such as anaphylactic shock, so call an ambulance immediately.

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