wasp sting

How to treat a wasp sting

Fact Checked

Wasp sting causes redness, swelling and pain. The stinger has poisonous venom that can be transferred to humans when they are stung. They have the ability to sting several times and the stingers remain intact.

Symptoms

  • Severe pain or burning sensations at the stinged area
  • Development of hives. A small white mark at the center of the bump which indicates the point where the stinger has punctured the skin.
  • Wheezing
  • Swollen mouth or throat
  • Shortness of breath
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Fainting
  • Chest pain
  • Redness, swelling and itching

Anaphylactic reaction to a wasp sting

wasp sting
Keep the affected area dry as much as possible by covering it using a bandage to prevent the risk of developing an infection and worsen the condition.
  • Problems with breathing such as wheezing
  • Severe swelling of the face, lips and throat
  • Severe itching or hives in all areas of the body which are not affected by the sting
  • Stomach cramps
  • Diarrhea
  • Dizziness and hypotension which is a sudden drop in the blood pressure
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Weak or fast pulse beat
  • Losing consciousness

Treatment

  • Clean the affected area using soap and water to wash away venom in the area.
  • Remove the stinger using a pair of tweezers or rub it using a card to prevent the fast spread of the venom into the body.
  • Ice the affected area.
  • Keep the affected area dry as much as possible by covering it using a bandage to prevent the risk of developing an infection and worsen the condition.
  • Elevate the area and remove any tight-fitting clothing in the legs, hands, arms or feet. Jewelries should be removed to prevent difficulties in removing them when the area starts to swell. If the legs are affected, lay down immediately to prevent swelling.
  • Prescribed calamine lotion or a topical hydrocortisone cream to lessen the irritation and itching.
  • Prescribed over-the-counter medications to lessen the pain.
  • Make a paste by mixing baking powder with a few drops of water. Mix them well until it becomes the consistency of a paste. Apply the paste on the affected area to lessen the symptoms.
  • Prescribed antihistamines to lessen the swelling and the itching caused by wasp sting.
  • Use the prescribed EpiPen if available.
  • Perform CPR if there is difficulty breathing.

Tips

  • Use a medical alert bracelet when travelling. It is a small tag that is worn on a neck chain; bracelet or clothing with a message that the bearer has an important medical condition that needs medical attention.
  • Wear protective shoes and clothing when going outdoors.
  • Avoid using strong scented perfumes outdoors.

Disclaimer / More Information

The material posted on this page on a wasp sting is for learning purposes only. Learn to properly manage a sting by taking a first aid and CPR class with one of our training providers.

FACT CHECK

https://www.healthline.com/health/wasp-sting

https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/297999.php

https://www.webmd.com/first-aid/bee-and-wasp-stings-treatment#1

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