How to Care for a Wasp Sting

Wasp stings are a common summer problem, especially for young children who like to play outdoors. Although getting stung by a wasp causes immediate pain and can be very frightening, it is often nothing more than a harmless experience. Be aware that wasp stings can result in an infection if they are left untreated, however. This is why it is so important to properly care for a wasp sting as soon as it happens.

Things You'll Need

• Soap and water
• Ice pack
• Acetaminophen (Benadryl) or Ibuprofen
• Cortisone or chamomile lotion

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Instructions

• 1

  Clean the skin with soap and warm water. If possible, use an antibacterial soap. It is necessary to wash the area of skin several times a day until the wasp sting has completely healed. To dry the skin, gently pat it with a soft towel.

• 2

  Press an ice pack against the area of skin. Be sure to avoid putting ice directly against the skin. Ice should be wrapped in either a cloth or plastic bag. If an ice pack is not available, press a bag of frozen peas against the wasp sting.

• 3

  Apply cortisone or chamomile lotion the area of skin. Wasp stings can become itchy and irritated. This often occurs as the wasp sting is beginning to heal. It is ideal to continue applying cortisone lotion or chamomile lotion until the wasp sting has healed.

• 4

  Give the person either acetaminophen or Ibuprofen. The person who has been stung by a wasp is likely to experience some pain immediately after. Acetaminophen and Ibuprofen can both help relieve the pain that the wasp sting has caused.

• 5

  Seek medical attention based on the location of the wasp sting. If the wasp stung the person in a very sensitive area, such as in the mouth or near the eye, it is important to visit a doctor or hospital right away. Oral wasp stings especially require medical attention because swelling can cause the person to be unable to breathe properly. Wasp stings in most other areas of the body do not require immediate medical attention, however.

• 6

  Take note of any signs of a bee allergy. Some of the common signs of an allergy include breathing difficulties, wheezing, throat or chest tightness, severe swelling, nausea, vomiting, fainting, dizziness and swelling of the face, tongue or lips. If the person who has been stung by a wasp already knows that she is allergic to bees, it is important to seek medical attention right away.

• 7

  Watch for signs of an infection. Even by caring for a wasp sting properly, there are some individuals who will experience an infection. If there is severe swelling or a skin rash at the area of the wasp sting that becomes worse or lasts for longer than three days, seek medical attention.