Wasp stings usually cause immediate pain, redness, itching and swelling around the affected area. Most reactions remain local and improve with basic first aid. However, wasp stings can occasionally cause a severe allergic reaction called anaphylaxis.
Unlike honeybees, wasps can sting more than once and do not usually leave a stinger in the skin. If you have been stung, move calmly away from the area to avoid further stings.
Wasp Sting Symptoms
A mild local reaction may cause:
- Sharp or burning pain
- Redness around the sting
- Itching
- Localised swelling
These symptoms often improve within 24 hours, although redness and swelling may remain for several days.
Some people develop a large local reaction, with swelling extending more than 10 centimetres around the sting. Medical advice may be appropriate if the swelling is severe, continues to spread or causes concern.
Wasp Sting Treatment
For an uncomplicated wasp sting:
- Move to a safe location away from the wasps or nest.
- Check the skin for a stinger. Wasps rarely leave one behind, but remove any visible stinger promptly.
- Wash the area with soap and water.
- Apply a cold pack wrapped in a cloth for approximately 15 minutes.
- Reapply the cold pack if the pain continues.
Pain-relief medicine or an oral antihistamine may help with pain or itching. Ask a pharmacist or doctor what is suitable for you, particularly when treating a child, someone who is pregnant or anyone with an existing medical condition.
Do not place ice directly against the skin because this can cause a cold injury.
When to Seek Medical Care
See a doctor promptly if:
- The sting is inside the mouth or on the face, neck or eyelid
- The sting affects the eye
- A child receives five or more stings
- An adult receives ten or more stings
- Pain or swelling continues to worsen
- The area shows signs of infection
- You have previously experienced a serious reaction to an insect sting
Healthdirect advises seeking medical care for these higher-risk situations. healthdirect
Signs of Anaphylaxis
Call Triple Zero (000) immediately if the person develops:
- Difficult or noisy breathing
- Swelling of the tongue or throat
- Wheezing or a persistent cough
- Difficulty talking or a hoarse voice
- Dizziness or collapse
- Abdominal pain, vomiting or diarrhoea soon after the sting
If the person has an adrenaline autoinjector, administer it immediately according to their ASCIA Action Plan. Lay the person flat and do not allow them to stand or walk. If breathing is difficult, they may sit with their legs extended. Begin CPR if they become unresponsive and are not breathing normally. Allergy
Hives or facial swelling can indicate an allergic reaction even when breathing remains normal. Stay with the person, seek medical advice and watch closely for symptoms of anaphylaxis.
Reducing the Risk of Wasp Stings
You can lower the risk of being stung by:
- Keeping food and sweet drinks covered outdoors
- Cleaning up sticky spills promptly
- Wearing enclosed shoes outside
- Avoiding open drink cans when wasps are active
- Teaching children not to disturb wasps or their nests
- Checking outdoor structures for developing nests
- Arranging professional removal instead of approaching an active nest
Wasps often defend their nests when disturbed. Do not spray, strike or block an active nest because this may provoke the colony and lead to multiple stings.
For broader seasonal prevention advice, read our tips for keeping your home pest-free during summer and our guide to the most common pests in Newcastle.
Wasp Removal Newcastle
If wasps are repeatedly entering your home or gathering around one location, there may be a nest nearby. Newcastle Pest Exterminators provides professional wasp control for Newcastle for homes and businesses.
Our technicians can inspect the property, locate accessible nests and recommend an appropriate treatment. Professional assistance reduces the need to approach or disturb an active nest yourself.
Contact Newcastle Pest Exterminators to arrange a wasp inspection or treatment.
