Can Wasps Leave a Stinger in You?
WouterGetting stung by a wasp can be painful, and you might wonder if they can leave a stinger in you. This is not true. While it is true that wasps do sting, they are not the same as bees. A bee’s stinger stays in the flesh of its victim, whereas a wasp’s stinger retracts into your body.
Wasps are part of the Hymenoptera order. They are known for their black and yellow coloring, and their bites can be painful. They attack any kind of threat to their nest.
When stung, your body goes into a fight or flight mode. Various chemicals are released, including histamine, a substance that causes inflammation. These chemicals are released in response to the sting, and are responsible for the pain and swelling.
The protein in the venom acts as an enzyme, causing tiny tissue debris to liberate. This tissue debris normally gets eliminated through the kidneys. However, too much tissue debris can block the kidneys and cause kidney failure.
It is important to clean and disinfect the area where you were stung. Using an alkaline solution of baking soda and water should help to relieve pain. You may also try applying aloe vera gel directly to the sting. You may also want to apply over-the-counter antihistamines to relieve itchiness.
If you have a severe allergic reaction to wasp stings, seek medical assistance immediately. You may have an anaphylactic reaction, which can be fatal. Some people may also experience shortness of breath, loss of consciousness, and other symptoms.
