How Much Do Wasps Hurt?

During a normal wasp sting, you will experience local pain, redness, swelling and itching. The stinging process usually passes on its own within a few days.

If you experience a severe reaction, however, you should seek emergency medical attention. You can also take antihistamine drugs, like Claritin, to help reduce your symptoms. However, antihistamines can also cause stomach irritation. In addition, they can cause drowsiness.

You can also take an alkaline solution of baking soda, about one tablespoon to one pint of water. Applying an ice pack to the sting can reduce swelling and pain. It is also recommended that you rinse the area with warm soap and water.

You should also take a tetanus shot within a few days of the sting. The tetanus shot can help you avoid the possibility of getting sick from wasp stings.

You can also apply aloe vera gel to the sting. You should also avoid pressing or squeezing the sting. This may cause the stinger to penetrate deeper into the skin. Medicated skin creams and colloidal oatmeal may also be effective.

You should also try to avoid nests where wasps reside. You should also carry a bee sting kit with you. These kits contain epinephrine, which can be administered if needed.

The length of the stinger also significantly correlated with the pain. A stinger that was one inch long was significantly less painful than a stinger that was two inches long.

You can also apply vinegar, as it can help neutralize the alkalinity of the sting. You can also apply oatmeal or calamine lotion to the sting.