WASP STINGS
What is a Wasp Sting?
A wasp sting is when a wasp feels under attack and they sting as a means of self-defence. A wasp has a stinger which contains poisonous venom, which they transmit to the victim’s skin.
Usually, the vast majority of people recover from a wasp sting and don’t suffer any adverse effect, other than a sharp pain and burning sensation.
Wasps are most likely to sting in the late summer months or in autumn.
Wasps can sting many times during an attack, unlike bees which can only sting once before they die.
The amount of venom transmitted by a wasp is a lot less than that of the bee.
The amount of venom contains a pheromone, which sets off an alarm to other wasps in the vicinity to join in the attack.
Do not wave your arms around swatting the wasps, as this will only anger them.
Move slowly away and try not to panic. Get inside as quickly as you can.
Symptoms of a Wasp Sting
As mentioned above, a normal wasp sting will only cause a sharp pain with a burning sensation and will leave a weal or swollen red patch which will only last a few hours.
If you suffer a severe reaction (allergy), the site becomes very swollen over a period of time and can last a few days. Please seek medical advice.
If a person is allergic to wasp stings, the venom can induce anaphylactic shock.
The symptoms to look out for are as follows:
- difficulty in breathing
- loss of blood pressure
- itchy red eyes
- red itchy skin rash across many parts of the body
- nausea/vomiting
- Swelling of the face particularly around the mouth area
- A feeling of impending doom
If any of the above symptoms are present, please call medical help.
Treatment
- Firstly, check if the stinger is still in the skin. If it is, remove using tweezers or you can use a credit card scraped over the sting. It is important to act quickly so that the venom does not increase in the site area.
- If you have been stung on the hand or arm, remove any jewellery, in case of swelling.
- Use an ice pack for about 10 minutes which will help reduce irritation. Re-apply if you are still in some discomfort.
- Antihistamine in both tablet and cream form can also be beneficial.
- Take paracetamol or ibuprofen.
- Avoid scratching the area, as this can cause infection.
Prevention
- Do not go near a wasp nest, as their immediate reaction will be to attack.
- Wear an insect repellent if you know you are allergic to insect stings.
- If you are eating outside, avoid sugary food and drinks, as this will attract wasps.
- Avoid wearing strong perfume or deodorant.
- Wear sensible clothes if working outside, e.g. long-sleeved tops and trousers tight around the ankles.
- If there is a nest in your garden, contact your local pest control company as soon as possible.
The post Look out for the Dangers of Wasp Stings appeared first on Bye Bye Spots.
