How to Treat a Wasp Sting?

Not many of us are aware a wasp can insert and withdraw its sting with ease. That is the reason why a single wasp can deliver multiple stings. However, the volume of venom injected by a wasp sting is less than that of a bee but more powerful. You need to know the venom of a wasp sting could cause allergy and needs to be treated immediately. Another point worth mentioning here is wasps are social insects and they tend to attack a victim in groups. In reality, the venom of the wasp contains pheromone, which alerts and welcomes the other wasps in that area. Here are a few tips to treat a wasp sting.

How to Treat a Wasp Sting?

A sting of a wasp hurts badly and could be deadly if left untreated. Remember, the wasps attack in groups. Hence, if you happen to live in an area where there are wasps it would be a wise idea to keep a first aid box handy. However, if you come across a wasp nest in your garden or on the attic of your home it is better to have it removed. Prevention is always better than cure.

The moment you are sure that you have been stung by a wasp, look for the stinger/s. A stinger has to be removed as soon as possible. The sting contains venom that causes swelling. There are stinger removal kits with removal pumps available in pharmacies. Using the pump you can remove the stinger easily.

In case you do not have the stinger removal first aid kit, you could use a blunt butter knife to scrape against your skin in the direction opposite to stinger entry. The stinger is likely to pop out. Avoid using tweezers, if you are not skillful in using it.

Once the stinger is removed use ice pack to reduce the pain. The spot of the sting should be wiped dry once in 15 minutes.

Apply antihistamine cream or gel such as diphenhydramine hydrochloride on the swelling. However, if you are not relieved of the pain even after a few hours, try taking oral analgesics such as ibuprofen or any mild painkillers.

As a home remedy try using moist baking soda or clay on the swell. These remedies are likely to provide some amount of relief.

However, if the stung area is swollen or the skin is red in color even after 24 hours, it is advisable to see a doctor.

If you are stung by a group of wasps, it is better to get medical help immediately. If you suffer from any signs such as anaphylactic shock, wheezing or swollen lips following a wasp sting meet a medical practitioner without delay.

If you have a prior history of allergy due to wasp sting the doctor might give you a shot of epinephrine.

Treat a wasp sting immediately before it leads to any other complication. Meet a medical practitioner without any delay if required.