How to Treat a Wasp Sting

Wasp stings are no joking matter. This time of year, stinging insects are fierce. You might come across a yellow jacket hive or hornet nest nest anywhere in your yard, beneath your deck, or inside your home's siding. While you might think you're ready to tolerate the pain, there are specific things you can do immediately to reduce the side effects, including allergic reactions.

"When you get a sting, the best approach is to stay calm," shares Soma Mandal, MD, Board Certified Internist, Summit Health. In our home, the first step has always been to use a product like the Bug Bite Thing Suction Tool. The reversible end cap has a narrow end that makes it easier to suction right at the spot of the sting to extract venom and bacteria. Tried and true, I can't underscore enough how it has helped to reduce pain and side effects, especially when our kids get a nasty bite. Of course, from a medical standpoint, Mandal also recommends the following:

• Check for the stinger and remove it, if it's still present.
• Clean the area with soap and water to remove any dirt or irritants. This helps prevent infection.
• Use a cold compress or ice pack on the bite for 15 minutes. A cold pack can really help to reduce swelling and also provides relief from itching.
• Apply an over-the-counter (OTC) hydrocortisone cream or calamine lotion can also aid to reduce inflammation.
• Reactions to wasp stings can vary, but consider using an oral antihistamine like Benadryl (diphenhydramine) or Zyrtec (cetirizine) to help reduce itching and allergic reactions. This can reduce the likelihood of needing medical care.
• Try not to scratch the area, as this can lead to more irritation and risks infection.

She adds, "Monitor for severe reactions after insect stings. If you experience any difficulty breathing, swelling of the face or throat or dizziness, you should seek emergency medical treatment."