Summ, brumm - Autsch!: Erste Hilfe bei Bienen- und Wespenstichen: So geht’s richtig

In the sweltering days of late summer, bees and wasps can be a nuisance, causing discomfort and potentially dangerous stings. When a bee or wasp delivers a sting, it's crucial to act quickly and appropriately. The key difference between a bee and wasp sting lies in whether the stinger is left behind. If a black, fleshy object remains embedded in the skin, it's likely a bee sting.

Wasps, on the other hand, do not leave their stingers. To safely remove a stinger, gently scrape it off with a credit card or similar object, being careful not to apply excessive pressure and cause more venom to enter the wound.

Once the stinger is removed, thoroughly clean the affected area and, if possible, disinfect it. It's essential to keep calm and avoid scratching the sting site, as this could lead to infection. While some may recommend cooling the area to reduce pain and swelling, both heat and cold can be beneficial. For cooling, use cold water, ice cubes, or a cool pack, but avoid applying ice directly to the skin to prevent potential cold damage.

The magazine Öko Test even suggests using heat, specifically temperatures above 50 degrees Celsius, as it can help break down the proteins in the insect venom, mitigating its effects. However, heat treatment should only be applied briefly to prevent burns.

Determine the urgency of seeking medical attention based on the location of the sting. If a bee or wasp stings the mouth or neck, seek immediate professional help, as this can lead to significant swelling of the mucous membranes or tongue, potentially causing respiratory distress. In cases of anaphylaxis, a severe allergic reaction characterized by difficulty breathing, dizziness, rapid heartbeat, nausea, or loss of consciousness, call emergency services immediately.

Furthermore, if you or someone else has a known allergy, ensure your emergency kit is accessible. Moderator Andrea Kiewel from the ZDF's "Fernsehgarten" managed to handle a bee sting with grace, earning the show's approval on Instagram.