It is important to remove the stinger as quickly as possible after a sting. Even a delay of a second or two in removing the stinger is likely to increase the amount of venom you receive. In less than 20 seconds after a sting, 90% of the venom is injected into your body.
Try these tips to quickly remove a stinger.
- Flick the stinger out with your finger.
- Scrape it out with something that is a immediately available.
Examples include a stiff piece of paper, butter knife, or credit card. Don't waste time trying to find something special.
Current as of: July 10, 2023
Author: Healthwise Staff (https://www.healthwise.org/specialpages/legal/abouthw/en)
Clinical Review Board (https://www.healthwise.org/specialpages/legal/abouthw/en)
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.