Wasp stings are not uncommon, especially in the warmer months when people are outside longer. They can be uncomfortable, but most people recover quickly and without complications. But even without a stinger, wasp venom can cause significant pain and irritation. It is also possible that you may have a severe reaction if you are allergic to the poison. In any case, prompt treatment is of the utmost importance. In this article you will find out what to do if you are stung by a wasp, what symptoms occur and what measures to take.
Symptoms that occur when a wasp stings
Most people without a wasp sting allergy show only mild symptoms during and after a wasp sting. The first sensations may include sharp pain or burning at the sting site. Redness, swelling and itching may also occur.
Normal local reaction: A raised wound around the injection site is likely. You may see a small white spot in the center of where the stinger pierced your skin. Usually the pain and swelling will subside within a few hours after the sting.
What to do if you have a wasp sting allergy
Great local reaction: “Severe local reactions” is a term that describes the more severe symptoms associated with a wasp or bee sting. People who have severe local reactions may have an allergic reaction to a wasp sting without experiencing life-threatening symptoms such as anaphylactic shock.
Serious local reactions to a wasp sting include severe redness and swelling that increase for two or three days after the sting. Nausea and vomiting can also occur. In most cases, major local reactions resolve on their own within about a week. Tell your doctor if you have a severe local reaction. He or she may direct you to take an over-the-counter antihistamine to relieve the discomfort.
Anaphylaxis: The most severe allergic reactions to a wasp sting are called anaphylaxis. Anaphylaxis occurs when your body goes into shock in response to the wasp venom. Symptoms of a severe allergic reaction to a wasp sting include:
- Severe swelling of the face, lips, or throat
- Hives or itching on parts of the body not affected by the sting
- Difficulty breathing, such as wheezing or shortness of breath
- Feeling dizzy
- sudden drop in blood pressure
- Feeling dizzy
- Loss of consciousness
- Nausea or vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Stomach cramps
- Weak or rapid pulse
You don't have to experience all of these symptoms after a wasp sting, but it is likely that you will experience at least some of them after another sting. It is important that you seek emergency medical attention immediately to treat anaphylaxis.
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Treating the sting site at home – tips
You can treat mild and moderate reactions to wasp stings at home. In this case you should do this:
- Wash the puncture site with soap and water to remove as much poison as possible.
- Apply a cold compress to the injection site to reduce swelling and pain.
- Keep the wound clean and dry to avoid infection.
- Cover them with a bandage if desired.
- Use hydrocortisone cream or calamine lotion if the itching or irritation becomes bothersome. Baking soda and colloidal oatmeal soothe the skin and can be used during bathing or through medicated skin creams.
- Over-the-counter painkillers, such as ibuprofen, can relieve the pain associated with a sting.
- Antihistamine medications, including diphenhydramine and chlorpheniramine, can also relieve itching. Take all medications as directed to avoid possible side effects such as stomach irritation or drowsiness.
You should also consider getting a tetanus shot within a few days of being bitten if you haven't had a shot in the last 10 years.
Treat the affected skin area with vinegar: Vinegar is another possible optionHome remedy used for wasp stingscould become. The theory is that the acidity of the vinegar can help neutralize the alkalinity of the stinger. To use vinegar on wasp stings, soak a cotton ball with apple cider vinegar or white vinegar and place it on the affected area of skin. Apply gentle pressure to relieve pain and inflammation. You can leave the cotton ball on your skin for a few minutes.
How to protect children from bites
Although insect stings and bites are often perceived as a childhood ritual, this does not make them any less dangerous and unpleasant. Young children are particularly at risk because they may not be able to fully explain that they have been stung by a wasp.
If your child is playing outside, be on the lookout for signs of a wasp sting and immediately examine the source of the tears and discomfort.
You can teach your children early on how to prevent a wasp sting. For example, you can show him what wasps and their nests look like and how to avoid them. Other safety precautions include not going outdoors barefoot and not drinking sugary drinks, as these can attract the insects.
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What measures to take in case of pregnancy
A wasp sting can occur at any stage of life, including during pregnancy. Unless you are known to be allergic to the venom or have had severe local reactions in the past, stings are not a cause for concern. You can follow the same treatment measures as someone who is not pregnant, but avoid antihistamines with decongestant ingredients.
