Signs and symptoms that a child has been stung by an insect
include pain, local swelling, burning, and itching. If the child
is allergic, there also may be nausea, shock, or
unconsciousness. If a child has been stung by a wasp or bee and
the stinger is visible, remove it by gently scraping it off, and
don't squeeze the stung area. Other flying insects don't leave
venom sacs. Some children have reactions to fire ant stings that
include difficulty in breathing, fever, and an upset stomach. If
the child isn't allergic to a sting, wash with soap and water
and soak a cloth in cold water or wrap in ice and press over the
area of the sting to reduce pain or swelling. Other treatments,
including antihistamine creams, pills, or home remedies, such as
baking soda or vinegar, may not be appropriate, so check with a
doctor. Call for medical help immediately if you know a child is
allergic, or if there's coughing; wheezing; sudden difficulty in
breathing; hives or itching all over the body; extreme swelling
near the eye,