What to Do About Wasp Sting Swelling After 48 Hours

A wasp sting can cause pain, redness, and swelling. The swelling usually goes away on its own within a few hours, but in some cases, it can last up to 48 hours.

The severity of the swelling depends on the individual’s reaction to the sting and how many times they were stung. In some cases, swelling can spread beyond the area where the sting occurred, causing discomfort and pain.

If you experience swelling after a wasp sting, there are several home remedies you can try, including applying ice to the affected area, taking an antihistamine, elevating the area, and using over-the-counter pain relievers.

However, if the swelling persists or worsens, it’s important to seek medical attention to rule out any allergic reactions or other complications.

Symptoms of Wasp Sting Swelling

Pain and Itching

One of the most common symptoms of a wasp sting is pain and itching at the site of the sting. This can last for a few hours to a few days, depending on the severity of the sting.

Redness and Swelling

Redness and swelling around the site of the sting is also a common symptom. This can often spread beyond the site of the sting and last for up to a week, especially if you’re allergic to wasp stings.

Part of the reason for these long wait times and short appointments is due to a nationwide shortage of physicians that is only getting worse. A report by the Association of American Medical Colleges predicts that, due to population growth and specifically growth of the elderly population, the physician shortfall in the U.S. could reach 121,300 by the year 2030.

Hives and Rash

Some people may also experience hives and rash as a result of a wasp sting. These can appear anywhere on the body and cause discomfort and itching.

Difficulty Breathing and Swallowing

In rare cases, a wasp sting swelling can cause difficulty breathing and swallowing. If this happens, seek medical attention immediately.

Nausea and Vomiting

Some people may also experience nausea and vomiting as a result of a wasp sting. If this occurs, it’s important to stay hydrated and seek medical attention if symptoms worsen.

• It’s important to monitor your symptoms after a wasp sting to ensure they don’t worsen.
• If you’re allergic to wasp stings, seek medical attention immediately if you experience swelling beyond the site of the sting or difficulty breathing and swallowing.

How to Treat Wasp Sting Swelling

Remove the Stinger

If the wasp left its stinger in your skin, use a pair of tweezers or your fingernails to gently remove it. Do not use your fingers to squeeze the stinger as this can release more venom into your skin.

Clean the Area

Wash the affected area with soap and water to remove any dirt or bacteria that could cause an infection.

Reduce Swelling

Apply a cold compress like ice or a cold pack wrapped in a towel to reduce swelling. Leave the compress on the affected area for 10-15 minutes at a time, multiple times per day.

Alternatively, you can use a cloth dipped in vinegar or baking soda paste to reduce swelling.

Relieve Pain and Itching

You can use over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen to reduce pain and inflammation. Topical creams or lotions containing hydrocortisone or calamine can help relieve itching.

It is also important to avoid scratching the affected area as this can lead to infection.

Monitor for Allergic Reactions

If you experience severe symptoms such as difficulty breathing, hives, or swelling of the face or throat, seek medical attention immediately. This could be a sign of an allergic reaction.

Home Remedies for Wasp Sting Swelling

1. Ice Pack

Application of ice to the affected area can help reduce swelling and pain. Wrap ice in a cloth and apply to the sting for 10-15 minutes. Repeat every few hours until swelling has reduced.

2. Vinegar

Vinegar is an effective remedy for wasp sting swelling. Soak a cotton ball in vinegar and apply to the sting for 15-20 minutes. Repeat several times a day to reduce swelling.

3. Baking Soda

Mix baking soda and water to form a thick paste. Apply to the sting and leave on for 15-20 minutes. Rinse with cool water. This remedy can help reduce swelling and pain.

4. Aloe Vera

Aloe Vera is known for its anti-inflammatory properties. Apply aloe vera gel to the sting for 15-20 minutes. Repeat several times a day to reduce swelling.

5. Honey

Honey has anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce swelling and pain. Apply a small amount of honey to the sting and leave on for 15-20 minutes. Rinse with cool water.

• Remember to remove the stinger if visible using a tweezers.
• Avoid scratching the sting area as this can cause further irritation.
• Over-the-counter painkillers can also help manage pain and swelling.

When to Seek Medical Attention for Wasp Sting Swelling

Symptoms of severe allergic reactions

If you experience symptoms such as difficulty breathing, swelling in the face or throat, rapid heartbeat, dizziness, or loss of consciousness, seek emergency medical attention immediately. These symptoms may indicate a severe allergic reaction to the wasp sting.

Signs of infection

If the swelling and redness around the wasp sting worsen after 48 hours, or if you see pus or discharge from the sting site, it may indicate an infection. Consult a doctor for proper treatment, as leaving an infection untreated can cause serious health problems.

Multiple wasp stings

If you have been stung by multiple wasps or have a history of severe allergic reactions to wasp stings, it is important to seek medical attention immediately. Multiple stings can cause a more severe allergic reaction, and a history of previous reactions to wasp stings increases the risk of future reactions. It is important to have proper medical care to prevent serious complications.

Children, elderly, and those with underlying medical conditions

If you are a child, an elderly person, or have underlying medical conditions such as asthma, heart disease, or immune system disorders, it is important to seek medical attention if you have been stung by a wasp and experience any symptoms, such as swelling, redness, or pain. These individuals are at a higher risk of complications and require special medical care.

• Remember to remove the stinger immediately after being stung by a wasp.
• If you are unsure whether you need medical attention, err on the side of caution and seek medical advice.
• Make sure to inform your doctor of any allergies or medication you are currently taking.

Preventing Wasp Sting Swelling

1. Avoiding Areas with Wasp Nests

Avoiding areas that have wasp nests is the simplest way to prevent wasp stings. If you find a wasp nest on your property, have it removed by professionals. Wearing protective clothing when working outside can also help prevent wasp stings.

2. Wearing Protective Clothing

If you have to work outside around wasps or bees, wear protective clothing such as long sleeves, long pants, and closed-toe shoes. Additionally, it’s best to wear light-colored clothing as wasps are attracted to dark colors.

3. Using Insect Repellent

Insect repellents can be an effective way to prevent wasp stings. When using insect repellent, it’s important to follow the instructions on the label carefully and to avoid spraying it on your face or eyes. It’s also important to remember that insect repellent may irritate your skin, so use it sparingly.

4. Keeping Food and Drinks Covered

Wasps are attracted to food and sugary drinks, so it’s important to keep them covered when eating or drinking outside. You should also avoid leaving food and drinks out for extended periods as this can attract stinging insects.

5. Treating Wasp Nests and Hives

If you find a wasp nest or hive on your property, it’s important to have it removed as soon as possible. This will help prevent wasp stings and reduce the risk of an allergic reaction.

6. Understanding Wasp Behavior

Understanding wasp behavior can help you avoid being stung. Wasps are most active during the day and are less active at night. They also tend to be more aggressive when their nests are disturbed, so it’s important to stay away from their nests.

• Avoiding areas with wasp nests
• Wearing protective clothing
• Using insect repellent
• Keeping food and drinks covered
• Treating wasp nests and hives
• Understanding wasp behavior

Prevention Tips	Description
Avoiding areas with wasp nests	Avoiding areas that have wasp nests is the simplest way to prevent wasp stings.
Wearing protective clothing	Wearing long sleeves, long pants, and closed-toe shoes can help prevent wasp stings.
Using insect repellent	Insect repellents can be an effective way to prevent wasp stings.
Keeping food and drinks covered	Keeping food and drinks covered can help prevent wasps from being attracted to them.
Treating wasp nests and hives	Removing wasp nests and hives can help prevent wasp stings and reduce the risk of an allergic reaction.
Understanding wasp behavior	Understanding wasp behavior can help you avoid being stung.