What to Do When Stung by a Wasp

Wasps are a definite nuisance.  Most people do not like to see them at all.  Wasps stings just add to the general hatred of wasps. 

Most people are not allergic to a wasp sting and will only suffer the initial pain and general discomfort, itchiness, slight swelling at the sting site, and a bit of pain.  It should not cause many problems.

However, there are those who are allergic to a wasp sting.  For those who are severely allergic to wasp stings, they may suffer from anaphylactic shock.  If you find that you feel sick or the location of the wasp sting is swelling beyond what a normal bee sting would....contact your doctor immediately.  If you feel sick and keep getting sicker, go to the doctor's office or emergency room.  Do not wait for an appointment.  Go immediately.

Some of the things that you should do when stung by a wasp are:

• Keep the area that was stung lower than the rest of the body. 
• Apply ice or a bag of frozen vegetables to the affected area. 
• Avoid scratching or squeezing the affected area.
• Keep the area clean with soap and water.
• If the area is very itchy, apply a paste of baking soda and water overnight.

These are some of the things to look out for and do when you or someone you love is stung by a wasp.  Use your best judgment, and if in doubt, see a doctor.

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