I was doing some trials outside like I normally do on Thursday. I wanted to get a lot done so I was rushing and capturing bees in plastic viles to incubate them after feeding them control and pesticide solution. Unfortunately I did not realize that I was making a bee upset by pressing it against an object while capturing another bee. So I got stung on my right hand.
No problem. I’ve been stung before. Wash with soap and water and put ice on it. I even put a little hydrocortisone cream too. A day later my hand looked like this.
Right hand was stung by a honey bee
I couldn’t use my right hand because it was so swelled up. My thumb couldn’t touch my other fingers and I couldn’t bend my wrist up. The swelling was slowing going toward my elbow. I didn’t expect this much swelling to occur, especially after 24 hours. The next day I called the hospital and asked the advice nurse and she advised me to come in the next day.
I could’ve driven myself but that obviously wasn’t a good idea. Fortunately my roommate took some time aside and drove me. It was a very quick appointment and they perscribed me some medication. They were worried about a bacterial infection so they gave me antibiotics (cephalexin) and stuff to reduce the swelling (prednisone).
After 3 days, I regained about 90% functionality of my hands. It still irritates me but I can deal with it.
I’m going to have to see if I can get an Epi-pen at the greenhouse. I’m sure someday we’ll need it, especially since this is the second for me in 3 months, and three total in 3 months, as far as I’m aware of.
Surprisingly I’m not very deterred to continue my research. I think even if I was stung 10 times, I would pass it off as something that happens and would probably blame myself, like I wasn’t careful enough or something. It’s like my cat this morning. He pooped outside his litterbox. In 7 different spots. But I’m pretty sure that was my fault, since I didn’t take into consideration his sensitive diet (I think it’s the treats that I give him. He loves those so much).
