My son stepped on something in the yard and his foot is swelling up so fast. He is crying in pain and I don’t know if I should extract the stinger myself or rush to urgent care. What is this?

When your child experiences a sudden, painful sting with rapid swelling, it’s crucial to determine if the situation is an emergency. Look for signs of a severe allergic reaction, such as difficulty breathing, swelling of the face or throat, dizziness, or a rash spreading throughout the body. These symptoms may indicate anaphylaxis, a life-threatening condition that requires immediate medical attention.

If your child is having difficulty breathing or you notice any of the above symptoms, call 911 immediately. For more mild reactions, such as localized swelling and pain, you have some time to assess and treat the sting at home or decide if a trip to urgent care is necessary.