A wasp sting delivers venom, triggering painful symptoms. Unlike bees, wasps have a smooth stinger, allowing them to sting multiple times and inject more venom with each strike. The duration of discomfort is highly variable but follows a predictable pattern for a typical, non-allergic reaction.
The Typical Pain Timeline
The pain from a wasp sting is acute and intense during the first few minutes after the injection of venom. This sharp pain and burning sensation results from the venom acting on local nerve endings. Shortly after, the site develops a raised welt accompanied by redness, discoloration, and a throbbing ache.
For most individuals, significant pain subsides within one to two hours of the sting. The area may remain tender, slightly swollen, and itchy, with localized symptoms peaking around 24 to 48 hours. Most typical local reactions completely resolve within two to five days.
Immediate Relief and First Aid Measures
The first step after a wasp sting is to clean the area thoroughly with soap and water to remove residual venom and minimize the risk of bacterial infection. Applying a cold compress or an ice pack wrapped in a cloth to the sting site is effective for reducing both pain and swelling. The cold temperature constricts blood vessels, limiting the spread of the inflammatory response.
For stings on a limb, elevating the affected arm or leg helps reduce swelling by facilitating fluid drainage. Over-the-counter oral antihistamines, such as diphenhydramine, manage itching and swelling mediated by histamine release. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen, or acetaminophen can relieve persistent throbbing pain and reduce localized inflammation.
Factors That Extend Healing Time
The healing timeline can be prolonged beyond the typical two to five days by several variables, often resulting in a “large local reaction.” This reaction is characterized by swelling extending more than four inches (ten centimeters) across the sting site. Swelling may increase for up to 48 hours after the sting and can take between five and ten days to fully resolve.
The location of the sting also plays a role, as stings on the face, neck, hands, or joints tend to swell more dramatically. Scratching the intensely itchy sting site can break the skin barrier, introducing bacteria and leading to a secondary bacterial infection. Signs of infection, such as increasing pain, warmth, or pus after 48 hours, will significantly extend the healing process.
Recognizing Severe Reactions
While most wasp stings result in only localized discomfort, it is important to monitor for signs of a severe systemic allergic reaction, known as anaphylaxis. This reaction requires immediate emergency medical attention and typically manifests quickly, often within minutes of the sting. Symptoms like difficulty breathing, wheezing, or sudden swelling of the throat or tongue indicate airway compromise.
Other serious signs include widespread hives, itching, or swelling away from the sting site, dizziness, lightheadedness, or a rapid, weak pulse. Nausea, vomiting, or abdominal cramping can also accompany anaphylaxis. If any of these systemic symptoms occur, administer an epinephrine auto-injector, if available, and call for emergency medical services without delay.