Most insect stings leave a painful or itchy red lump that may have a tiny hole in the center. Sometimes the stinger remains in the skin.

PREVENTION
Try to avoid getting stung by insects.
Keeping foods and drink containers tightly covered.
Don't wear perfume, colognes and hair spray when you are outdoors.
Don't wear bright colors.
Wear snug clothing that covers your arms and legs.
Don't go barefoot.
If an insect gets in your car, stop the car, roll down the windows and get the insect out of the car.

SIGNS
Red lump, often accompagnied by pain, swelling, itching, or a rash.
Insect stings can result in a severe allergic reaction. Symptoms of this include: severe swelling (all over and/or of the face, tongue, lips), weakness, dizziness, a difficult time breathing or swallowing, upset stomach, vomiting, cramping or diarrhea.

FIRST AID
Gently scrape out the stinger as soon as possible. (This applies to bees only; yellow jackets, wasps and hornets don't lose their stingers.)
Don't pull the stinger out with your fingers or tweezers.
Don't squeeze the stinger.
Wash the area carefully with soap and water. This should be continued several times a day until the skin is healed.
Apply a cold or ice pack, wrapped in cloth for a few minutes.
Apply a paste of baking soda and water and leave it on for 15 to 20 minutes.
Take over-the-counter medications such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen to relieve the pain.

CALL IMMEDIATELY FOR EMERGENCY MEDICAL ASSISTANCE IF:
You have symptoms of an allergic reaction: severe swelling (all over and/or of the face, tongue, lips), weakness, dizziness, a difficult time breathing or swallowing, upset stomach, vomiting, cramping or diarrhea.
THIS IS AN EMERGENCY!