A PEST expert has warned scratching after a bee sting is the worst thing a person can do – and could cause a serious health issue.
During the summer months, the Queen bee is laying more eggs – meaning its peak time for everyone to get stung.
A bee sting can cause a temporary sharp pain and puncture wound, before potentially leading to redness, warmth, itching and swelling.
In the most serious cases, such a sting can lead to a life-threatening reaction.
Dr Naheed Ali, who works for the Worcestershire Royal Hospital, advised that it is "crucial" to know how to respond if stung by a bee.
But she also explained exactly what not to do in such a case, too.
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Dr Ali told MailOnline: "Though it might be tempting, don't scratch the affected area.
"Scratching might bring temporary relief but could lead to complications, including infection."
Instead, she advised to opt for a cold compress such as a flannel, ice pack or a cloth cooled with cold water.
Applying the cold compress for 10 to 20 minutes should ease swelling, she adds.
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She warned against using products such as vinegar or bicarbonate of soda, which are unlikely to help and may make matters worse.
Dr Helen Evans-Howells runs the Dr Helen Allergy private clinic operating across Bournemouth and Dorchester.
She advised a "scrape don't squeeze" method of tackling bee stings.
This is achieved by flicking the tail end of the sting with something like a credit card, which will eliminate the venom.
Should anyone begin to feel particularly ill, it is recommended they taken an antihistamine.
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