Wasp Sting Remedies
From LoveToKnow Skincare
There are several wasp sting remedies that can help the common reaction symptoms of this insect sting.
About Wasp Stings
Unlike mosquitoes, gnats or other flying insects that bite, wasps have stingers that they use to inject poison into the skin. Wasp stings are considered very painful. Once you've been stung by a wasp, you'll probably need to seek wasp sting remedies that will treat the pain and swelling at the wound site.
Effective Wasp Sting Remedies
There are a few over the counter products that can aid in symptom and treatment treatment of wasp stings.
Prior to treating the wasp sting, you'll need to prepare the targeted bite site for healing.
- Remove stinger: Immediately remove stinger from the skin. Use tweezers if needed.
- Cleanse skin: After the stinger is removed, cleanse the skin with warm soapy water.
- Pat dry: Pat dry.
- Apply ice: Apply ice to the wound to help reduce the swelling. Ice for at least 10-15 minutes.
The following over the counter medicated products can be administered as directed on the packaging:
- Benadryl: An allergy product containing an antihistamine, such as Benadryl, will help the body fight some of the natural reactions to the sting.
- Ibuprofen: Ibuprofen can help reduce the pain symptoms and the swelling of the wasp sting.
- Neosporin: Neosporin or any other triple antibiotic ointment will keep the wound from becoming infected. Apply as needed.
- Caladryl: Caladryl or any other itch relief medication may relieve the itch symptoms. Apply as needed.
Seeking Medical Care
Because of their weaker immune systems, children and the elderly need special precautions after being stung by a wasp. Although allergic reactions can occur in anyone, it is crucial that you look for the following symptoms, which may indicate a medical emergency:
- Difficulty breathing
- Hives
- Swelling in the mouth or face
- Body rash
- Fainting
- Multiple stings or bites
- Stings located in the mouth or eyeball
- Fever, draining or pus at the wound site
Preventing Stings
There is little that can be done to prevent future wasp stings. Wasps live in colonies, so if you see a wasp, immediately begin searching the area for a wasp nest. Once a nest is found, you'll need to remove it safely. There are many ways to remove wasp nests; some methods may involve insecticides. It is best to contact a professional for wasp nest removal.
To further reduce the risk of wasp stings, the following is advised:
- Do not wear heavy perfumes or lotions while spending time outside.
- Keep food covered.
- If a bee or wasp approaches, stand as still as possible. Do not attempt to swat at the insect.
- Wear shoes outdoors and avoid walking barefoot in grassy areas.
- Avoid wearing bright or floral printed clothing.
- Watch soda cans. Many wasp and bee stings occur when sipping from an unattended soda can that the insect has flown into. Keep beverages covered.
Although their sting is painful, wasp stings are much less common than mosquito bites. With a little prevention, wasp stings can often be avoided.
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This page has been accessed 1,873 times. This page was last modified 19:52, 13 December 2008.
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