Do wasp stings hurt more than bee stings? Both cause immediate pain, swelling, and redness, but their underlying biology leads to distinct experiences. Understanding these differences clarifies why one sting might feel more intense.
How Wasps and Bees Sting
Honey bees have barbed stingers that lodge in the skin after a sting. The bee cannot retract its stinger, and as it attempts to fly away, the stinger, venom sac, and part of its digestive tract are torn from its body, leading to the bee’s demise. The detached venom sac continues to pump venom into the wound for several seconds.
Wasps, including yellow jackets and hornets, have smooth stingers. This allows them to easily withdraw their stinger from the skin without causing self-injury. A single wasp can sting multiple times, delivering repeated doses of venom. This ability to sting repeatedly means wasps can be more aggressive, especially when defending their nests.
Comparing Sting Pain and Venom
The perceived pain from a wasp or bee sting varies significantly among individuals due to sting location and personal pain tolerance. Entomologist Justin O. Schmidt developed a “Schmidt Sting Pain Index” (scale 1-4). On this index, bee stings generally rate around a 2, while paper wasp stings can rate a 2 or 3, depending on the species. Wasp stings are often reported as sharper and more burning, sometimes lasting for several hours, whereas bee stings are described as more immediate, intense pain.
Differences in pain and reaction are attributed to the distinct chemical compositions of their venoms. Honey bee venom primarily contains melittin, a major pain-producing substance. Melittin causes pain by activating nerve cells and can also lead to localized swelling and redness. Wasp venom contains a complex mixture of compounds, including kinins, enzymes, and biogenic amines like histamine and acetylcholine. The presence of acetylcholine can stimulate pain receptors, heightening the pain sensation.
What to Do After a Sting
Immediate action after a sting minimizes discomfort and potential complications. For a bee sting, remove the stinger as quickly as possible, as it continues to release venom. Scrape it away with a fingernail or credit card, rather than pinching, which could inject more venom. Wasps do not leave their stinger behind, so this step is unnecessary for wasp stings.
After stinger removal, wash the affected area with soap and water. Apply a cold compress or ice pack to the sting site to reduce swelling and pain. Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can manage pain, while antihistamines or hydrocortisone cream may alleviate itching and swelling. Elevating a stung arm or leg can also help reduce swelling.
Monitor for signs of a severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis), such as difficulty breathing, facial or throat swelling, hives, dizziness, or a rapid heartbeat. If these symptoms occur, seek emergency medical attention immediately. Individuals with a known insect sting allergy should carry an epinephrine auto-injector. To prevent stings, avoid swatting at flying insects, wear light-colored clothing, and be cautious outdoors.