Sting (disambiguation) facts for kids

A sting is a small, painful injury you get from an animal. It happens when an animal uses a special sharp part of its body, called a stinger, to inject a tiny bit of venom into your skin. Animals like bees, wasps, and scorpions are well-known for their stings. Stings can hurt a lot, but there are usually simple ways to treat them.

What is a Sting?

A sting is like a tiny, quick poke from an animal. It's different from a bite because it uses a stinger, which is often found at the back of the animal's body. The stinger is like a small needle that can deliver a mild poison, called venom. This venom is what causes the pain, swelling, and redness you feel.

Animals That Sting

Many different animals can sting. Here are some common ones:

• Bees and Wasps: These flying insects are probably the most common stingers. Bees often leave their stinger behind, which means they can only sting once. Wasps, however, can sting multiple times.
• Hornets and Yellow Jackets: These are types of wasps that can be quite aggressive, especially if their nest is disturbed.
• Ants: Some ants, like fire ants, can sting, causing burning pain and red bumps.
• Scorpions: These creatures, found in warmer climates, have a tail with a stinger at the end. Their stings can be very painful.
• Jellyfish: While not technically a "stinger" in the same way, jellyfish have tentacles with tiny stinging cells that release venom when touched.

Why Do Animals Sting?

Animals usually sting as a way to protect themselves or their home. They don't sting just to be mean! If an animal feels threatened or if you accidentally get too close to its nest, it might sting to defend itself. For some animals, like spiders or scorpions, stinging is also a way to catch their food.

What Happens When You Get Stung?

When you get stung, you'll usually feel a sharp, sudden pain right away. After that, the area around the sting might:

• Become red and swollen.
• Feel itchy or warm.
• Have a small white bump in the middle.

Most stings cause only mild reactions that go away in a few hours or a day. However, some people can have a more serious reaction called an allergic reaction.

Allergic Reactions to Stings

A severe allergic reaction is rare but can be dangerous. It's called anaphylaxis. Signs of a serious reaction include:

• Trouble breathing or wheezing.
• Swelling far away from the sting, like in the face or throat.
• Feeling dizzy or faint.
• Hives or a rash all over the body.
• Feeling sick to your stomach or throwing up.

If someone has any of these signs after a sting, they need to get help from an adult and see a doctor right away.

How to Treat a Sting

For most stings, you can treat them at home with these simple steps:

• Remove the Stinger: If a bee stings you, its stinger might be left in your skin. Try to scrape it out gently with your fingernail or a credit card. Don't squeeze it with tweezers, as this can push more venom into your skin.
• Clean the Area: Wash the sting area with soap and water.
• Reduce Swelling and Pain:

* Apply a cold pack or ice wrapped in a cloth to the sting for 10-20 minutes. This helps with swelling and pain. * You can take an over-the-counter pain reliever, like ibuprofen, if an adult says it's okay. * An antihistamine cream or pill can help with itching.

• Keep it Clean: Try not to scratch the sting, as this can lead to infection.

How to Avoid Stings

The best way to deal with stings is to try and avoid them! Here are some tips:

• Be Aware of Your Surroundings: When you're outdoors, especially near flowers, trash cans, or picnics, be mindful of stinging insects.
• Don't Disturb Nests: If you see a bee or wasp nest, stay far away from it. Never try to knock it down yourself.
• Wear Shoes Outdoors: Bees and wasps can sometimes be found on the ground, especially in grassy areas. Wearing shoes can protect your feet.
• Avoid Sweet Smells: Strong perfumes, colognes, and sweet-smelling lotions can attract insects.
• Cover Food and Drinks: When eating outdoors, keep food and sugary drinks covered to prevent insects from landing on them.
• Stay Calm: If a bee or wasp is flying near you, try to stay calm and move away slowly. Swatting at it can make it more likely to sting.