stung

Stung is the past tense and past participle of sting, a verb describing the act of wounding or injecting venom with a sting. The word is used in sentences such as "She was stung by a bee." It derives from the Old English verb stingian, and the modern form uses an irregular past tense, stung.

Stings are most commonly caused by hymenopteran insects—bees, wasps, hornets, and ants—that have a pointed organ (the sting) through which venom is delivered into the skin. Other animals, including certain jellyfish, stingrays, and some scorpions, can cause stings or envenomations by injecting venom or toxins, sometimes via spines or specialized cells called nematocysts.

Symptoms typically include immediate sharp pain at the site, followed by swelling, redness, and itching. In some individuals, especially those with allergies, stings can trigger systemic reactions such as hives, facial or throat swelling, dizziness, or anaphylaxis. Severe reactions require urgent medical attention.

First aid commonly involves removing the sting if present by scraping with a flat object, avoiding squeezing the venom sac. The area should be cleaned with soap and water, a cold compress applied to reduce swelling, and an analgesic taken as needed. For itching, an oral antihistamine or hydrocortisone cream can help. Avoid irritants such as alcohol, ammonia, or hot water on the sting.

Prevention focuses on reducing encounter risk: avoid known nests, wear protective clothing when outdoors, and be cautious around flowers or food. People with known severe allergies should carry an epinephrine auto-injector and seek immediate help if signs of a systemic reaction occur.