Signs of an Allergy to Wasp Stings

Wasps inject venom into your skin when they sting you. Wasp stings usually cause itching, swelling and pain at the location of the sting. However, people who are allergic to wasps may have an allergic reaction, which can range from mild symptoms to severe, life-threatening reactions. Immediate treatment may be necessary. If you are allergic to wasps, always carry a bee sting kit and know how to use it in an emergency. Some signs of a wasp allergy include abdominal symptoms, hives, severe swelling, painful joints, wheezing, difficulty breathing and facial swelling.

Abdominal Symptoms

• If you are allergic to wasp stings, nausea, vomiting and abdominal cramps may occur after you are stung. Although these symptoms are unlikely to be life-threatening, call poison control for more advice and seek immediate medical care if more serious symptoms develop.

Hives

• Hives represent another symptom of an allergic reaction to wasps. Hives are not life-threatening, but may occur in conjunction with other severe symptoms, like difficulty breathing.

Severe Swelling

• Although some localized swelling is a normal response to wasp venom, an allergic reaction may cause severe swelling of an entire limb. If this occurs, seek immediate medical attention.

Painful Joints

• Joint pain may also occur during an allergic reaction to a wasp sting. Call poison control or an emergency room for guidance if you have joint pain; seek immediate help if you have breathing problems or other severe symptoms.

Wheezing and Difficulty Breathing

• Wheezing and difficulty breathing indicates a severe allergic reaction to a wasp sting and may be a symptom of anaphylactic shock. Seek immediate medical attention if wheezing or breathing difficulty occurs.

Facial Swelling

• Facial swelling, including swelling of the lips, throat and tongue, represents a severe and dangerous allergic reaction to wasp stings, since swelling can cause difficulty breathing and anaphylactic shock. Seek immediate medical attention if facial swelling occurs; if you have an epi-pen (epinephrine), use it to prevent anaphylactic shock.