Anxiety over bug sting

[Wilburbudgirl]

So the other evening I got Stung by a yellow jacket in 3 different spots and I put some stuff on it to help the stinging right away (I’m not allergic to them) but I can still see the bump from the sting (I’ve been putting bug bite stuff on it) and now I think of what if a little bit of the stinger got left in the spot or something 😩

[blackcat64013]

Hi Wilburbudgirl

Wasps can sting you multiple times unlike bees which can do so only once.

I have 6 tips for first aid treatment of yellow jacket stings

1.Use an ice or cold pack for the pain. Applying an ice or a cold pack to the affected area can help immediately reduce inflammation and the painful swelling associated with a yellow jacket sting. Wrap the ice or cold pack in a towel or washcloth before applying it to the bite to protect your skin. For best results, leave the ice on the bite for at least 20 minutes.

2.Take an antihistamine. The body produces a chemical known as histamine in an effort to protect the body from foreign substances, which is partly what causes the swelling and itching. Taking an over-the-counter antihistamine such as Benadryl right after getting stung can reduce these symptoms.

3.Mix up a paste of water and baking soda. The venom that yellow jackets produce is naturally acidic. Baking soda can help counteract the venom naturally. Mix a spoonful of baking soda with water, and then apply with a cotton swab or ball to the yellow jacket sting to help neutralize the venom.

5Use vinegar to reduce itching. Simple vinegar can act as an astringent and keep you from clawing at the bite, which could lead to further infection or inflammation. Just put a little vinegar on a cotton ball and pat on the affected area.

6. Sprinkle meat tenderizer on the wound. There’s actually some truth to this old wives’ tale. This powder typically has an enzyme called papain. This enzyme is naturally found in papaya fruit and helps break down the proteins in meat, and it can do the same for the venom of a yellow jacket sting. Rub a tiny bit of meat tenderizer on the bite to see if it helps reduce the pain and swelling.

[Usagold]

The venom has already done it's damage, whether the stinger was left behind or not. They usually don't leave the stinger, although it can happen. If so, your body will push it right out in a matter of days, just like it would get rid of a small splinter. It's nothing to worry about. I've had yellow jacket stings itch for a week or more. I don't usually have any bug bite spray, but I have used a little tea tree oil to stop the itching and prevent infection. I was stung 3 times when I was walking my dog a few weeks ago, as a matter of fact. Not fun!

[Wilburbudgirl in reply to Usagold]

Thank you for the replies 😊