Wasp stings may result in mild symptoms or can lead to serious consequences in case the individual is allergic. The wasp can insert and remove its sting easily. It can therefore sting multiple times. The wasp injects a lesser amount of venom than a bee. The stinger of the wasp itself contains a venom filled sac and an egg laying tube which serves as a needle. The wasp squeezes the sac and injects venom into the sting instrument which is then injected into the victim’s body. A feature that is unique to wasps and hornets is the pheromone that is present in the venom. This serves to alert other wasps in surrounding areas which then come and join in stinging the victim.
The symptoms resulting from a wasp sting may either be local or it could affect the entire body. This will depend on the area where the sting has occurred, the immunity of the individual and the number of wasp stings. The minor symptoms of a wasp sting include pain around the area of the sting, redness, swelling, itching, infection caused by bacteria and hives due to an allergic reaction to the venom. These reactions could persist for a short duration of time or for an hour. They can also continue for a week. If there is no improvement in the meantime, it is necessary to consult a doctor. Also, if more than one sting has occurred then it can become a cause for concern. Individuals that are allergic to the venom may experience more serious reactions which affect the whole body rather than just the area surrounding the bite.
When stung by a wasp, the first thing you need to do is to get rid of the sting if it has broken off in your skin. This can be done by scraping the area in the direction opposite to that of the entry of the sting. The affected area must be cleansed thoroughly with soap and water. In order to alleviate the swelling, place an ice pack on the area for fifteen minutes. To ease the itching and irritation, you can make a paste of baking soda and water and apply to the affected area. The venom that has been injected can be neutralized by dabbing the area with apple cider vinegar using a cotton ball. Inflammation can be reduced by applying crushed basil leaves to the sting. You can also apply fresh gel from aloe vera leaves to soothe and speed up healing of the affected area. The pain and effects of the venom can be restricted by the application of fresh lemon juice on the area.