Bee stings are ZERO FUN! The skin becomes red, swollen, irritated, and they hurt! I was recently stung by a bee for the first time (believe it or not) and it dawned on me how unprepared I was to care for the wound. So I've put together some simple instructions and information on how to care for a bee sting.

1. Remove the stinger of its visible by scraping gently with the end of a butter knife or credit card.

2. After removing the stinger, wash the area with soap and water.

3. Apply a cold pack to reduce pain and swelling.

4. Apply a paste of baking soda and water and leave it on for 15 to 20 minutes.

5. Take acetaminophen for pain.

Other remedies for pain and itching may include:

• dabbing on a tiny amount of household ammonia.
  Over-the-counter products which contain ammonia are also available for insect stings.

• taking an over-the-counter antihistamine, if approved by your physician.
  Be sure to follow dosage instructions for children.