A bee sting will produce an immediate, sharp pain that, in the cases of allergic individuals, is potentially life-threatening. To avoid this discomfort, you should be aware of bees on your property and schedule prompt pest control services when you find a hive or see swarms. Below, learn more about why bees sting and what to do if one stings you.

Why Do Bees Sting?

Just as turtles retreat into their shells, skunks spray, and rattlesnakes bite, bees sting to protect themselves. When they perceive a threat in their environment, they inject a sharp stinger into the aggressor's skin. This stinger has a barb on one end, so when the bee flies away, the stinger stays embedded in the skin.

Some bees, such as honeybees, release a venom called apitoxin into a victim's skin along with the stinger. However, not all bees sting. Larger drone bees don't have stingers, and most bees won't sting unless they feel provoked. Usually, this occurs when a person inadvertently steps on one or disrupts their hive.

What Should You Do if You're Stung?

First, don't panic. For most people, bee stings don't pose a severe threat. Get to a safe place as soon as possible, and act quickly to remove the stinger. The longer it stays in, the more venom it'll emit, and the higher your chances are of a reaction.

Lift the stinger out by gently scraping your fingernail over it. Don't use tweezers because putting pressure on the stinger will release more venom. Once it's out, wash the area with warm water and mild soap, and apply an icepack to reduce swelling.

If you experience signs of an allergic reaction, such as difficulty breathing, a swollen throat, or dizziness, seek medical attention immediately. After you've tended to the sting, check your property for swarms or hives, which are usually under the eaves or soffits of a home or in trees. Then, call in a pest control professional.

If there are bees on your property, contact Acme Pest Control Co. Since 1946, they’ve been providing pest control services to the Concord, NC, and Piedmont area. They offer bee, termite, bedbug, wildlife, and rodent removal, as well as radon testing, for homes and businesses, providing personalized pest eradication that meets individual needs and budgets. Call (704) 786-4166 or visit them online to schedule pest control services today.