A wasp sting delivers venom that causes immediate, sharp pain, followed by localized redness and swelling. While most stings are not dangerous and resolve without complications, understanding the difference between a normal reaction and a potential infection is important for proper care.
Normal Wasp Sting Reactions
Following a wasp sting, the body usually exhibits a localized inflammatory response including pain, redness, swelling, and itching. These symptoms generally peak within one to two hours, although some swelling can persist for up to 48 hours and resolve within a few days.
Immediate care for a wasp sting involves washing the affected area with soap and water. Applying a cold compress or ice pack to the sting site for 10-minute intervals can help reduce swelling and pain. Elevating the stung limb can also assist in minimizing swelling. Over-the-counter pain relievers and antihistamine creams or oral antihistamines can alleviate discomfort and itching.
Signs of a Wasp Sting Infection
A wasp sting can lead to a bacterial infection, particularly if the skin barrier is compromised through scratching. Signs of an infection typically appear a few days after the initial sting, distinguishing them from normal reaction symptoms. Increasing redness that spreads beyond the original sting site is a key indicator.
The affected area might feel warmer to the touch and exhibit worsening pain. The presence of pus or discharge from the wound suggests an infection. Red streaks extending away from the sting site can indicate the infection is spreading. In some cases, systemic symptoms like fever, chills, or swollen lymph nodes can accompany a localized infection. These symptoms signal that the infection, such as cellulitis, is progressing and requires prompt attention.
When to Seek Medical Care
Prompt medical evaluation is advisable if signs of infection develop, such as spreading redness, increased pain, warmth, pus, or red streaks. A medical professional should also be consulted if you experience flu-like symptoms, including fever or chills, after a wasp sting. These symptoms can indicate a more serious condition like cellulitis, which is a bacterial skin infection that may require antibiotics.
Certain situations unrelated to infection also warrant immediate medical attention. These include stings to sensitive areas such as the mouth, throat, or eyes, as swelling in these regions can lead to breathing difficulties or vision impairment. Multiple wasp stings can result in a toxic reaction due to the accumulated venom, causing symptoms like nausea, vomiting, headache, or fever. Individuals with compromised immune systems or those who develop signs of a severe allergic reaction, such as difficulty breathing, wheezing, swelling of the face or throat, dizziness, or a rapid pulse, need emergency care immediately.