To treat a wasp sting, follow these steps for effective relief:
- Move to a safe area to avoid additional stings and wash the sting site thoroughly with soap and water to remove venom and reduce infection risk
- Apply a cold compress or ice pack wrapped in a cloth to the sting area for 10-minute intervals, up to 30–60 minutes. This helps reduce pain, swelling, and itching
- Use topical treatments such as 0.5–1% hydrocortisone cream, calamine lotion, or a baking soda paste (baking soda mixed with water) applied to the sting site to soothe itching and irritation
- Take oral antihistamines to alleviate itching and allergic reactions, and consider over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen to reduce pain and inflammation
- Keep the area clean and dry , and cover with a bandage if desired to prevent infection
If the sting is severe or symptoms worsen—such as intense pain, swelling of lips/throat, difficulty breathing, dizziness, or widespread hives—seek immediate medical attention
. Additional home remedies that may provide relief include applying aloe vera gel, honey, toothpaste, or lavender oil, though these are supplementary and less commonly recommended by medical sources
. In summary, the key treatments for a wasp sting are cleaning the area, applying a cold compress, using topical creams or baking soda paste, and taking antihistamines and pain relievers as needed
