What should you know about facial swelling after bee sting?

A small area of pain, redness and swelling around the sting can be a local response. Swelling of the face can extend beyond the sting site, especially when the body reacts more broadly. Hives, vomiting, cough, wheeze, throat tightness or faintness suggest [Anaphylaxis](/conditions/anaphylaxis/), not merely a skin reaction. A later increase in warmth, pain, pus or fever may indicate [Cellulitis](/conditions/cellulitis/).

Move away from the area and check breathing and alertness. If a stinger is visible, gently scrape it away without squeezing the venom sac. Wash the skin, apply a wrapped cold pack and keep the swollen area raised when possible. Follow your personalised allergy action plan if you have one. Do not wait for swelling to become severe before seeking help if symptoms are spreading.

Call emergency services immediately for breathing or swallowing difficulty, tongue or throat swelling, voice change, collapse, confusion, widespread hives or repeated vomiting. Use prescribed emergency medicine according to your action plan and seek emergency care even if symptoms improve. [Anaphylaxis Emergency Treatment](/treatments/acute-and-urgent-care/anaphylaxis-emergency-treatment/) explains the urgent response.

Ask whether you need allergy evaluation, an emergency action plan or prescribed rescue medicine. Tell the clinician where the sting occurred, how quickly swelling developed and whether you have reacted to insects or foods before.