Insect stings are increasingly common as the weather warms up. During the summer months, insects like bees and wasps along with other pollinators are out in full force trying to collect pollen. With this increased presence, bee and wasp stings are most common during the summertime. Wasps are scary-looking, and their stings also can pack a punch. However, can you be seriously allergic to wasps like you can with bees? Keep reading to learn more about what to do if you’re stung by a wasp this summer.
If you’re attacked by a wasp, you can suffer many stings in a row. AFC Urgent Care Edgewater is here to help relieve the pain associated with wasp stings. Our walk-in clinic is open 7 days a week to provide rapid care for a variety of common conditions, including insect stings. Simply walk in when it’s convenient for you.
Differences Between Wasp & Bee Stings
Other than the harrowing appearance of wasps, there are some key differences between wasps and bees that you should be aware of. Firstly, wasps do not detach themselves from their stingers like bees do when they sting you. This means that wasps can continue to sting you repeatedly. Wasps are also incredibly aggressive, so it is important to be aware of your surroundings when spending time outdoors during the summer months. Coming across a wasp's nest accidentally could result in you getting swarmed by a hive. Wasps are incredibly aggressive, and upsetting one wasp can result in the whole hiving coming after you.
Can You Be Allergic to Wasps?
Although it is less common, you can be allergic to wasp stings. If you are allergic to bee stings, you are more likely to be allergic to wasps than someone who isn’t allergic to bees. Because wasps can sting many more times in a row, the amount of venom you’re exposed to can be much larger than when you’re stung by a bee, so it is important to closely monitor yourself for signs of an allergic reaction after being stung.
How to Treat a Wasp Sting
If you are stung by a wasp, the first thing you need to do is kill the wasp and move away from the area quickly. Wasps release hormones to attack other wasps when they sting. Because wasps do not release their stingers, you don’t need to worry about removing a stinger from the sting bite. Treatment for wasp stings includes monitoring for any signs of an allergic reaction and managing pain while the sting heals.
Symptoms of an allergic reaction include:
- Itching in the mouth
- Swelling around the eyes
- Extreme swelling at the sting site
- Developing a rash
- Difficulty breathing
- Stomach cramps
If you are stung by many wasps, medical attention may be needed to manage the pain and swelling. For mild stings, using an over-the-counter anti-itch cream and icing the area will help alleviate discomfort and promote healing.
Visit AFC Urgent Care Edgewater for Same-Day Medical Care In Edgewater, MD
If you’re stung by a wasp, it is important to monitor the sting site for signs of an allergic reaction. If you’re not sure, it’s better to be safe rather than sorry. Wasps often attack in groups and their stings are incredibly painful. Walk into AFC Urgent Care Edgewater for rapid same-day care for wasp stings available 7 days a week with no appointment needed. We accept most medical insurance plans and offer affordable rates. Walk into the clinic today.
