What to Expect After a Wasp or Bee Sting

Stings from wasps and bees can cause anything from mild irritation to life-threatening allergic reactions. During warmer months, many residents in Didcot and Wallingford report increased insect activity near homes and gardens. Knowing how to respond to a sting and when to seek help makes a big difference. This guide explains the symptoms, treatment, and emergency steps for allergic reactions.

Table of Contents

• Wasp vs Bee Sting: Key Differences
• Typical Symptoms of a Sting
• How to Treat Wasp and Bee Stings
• Recognising Anaphylactic Shock
• Emergency Steps for Severe Reactions
• Preventing Stings and Nest Encounters
• Related Advice and Blog Posts

Wasp vs Bee Sting: Key Differences

Stings from wasps or bees behave differently. Bees usually sting once and leave their stinger behind. Wasps can sting multiple times without dying. Bee stings tend to cause more swelling due to the stinger remaining in the skin. Wasp stings can feel sharper and more immediate.

Typical Symptoms of a Sting

Most people experience mild, localised reactions. Symptoms include:

• Immediate, sharp pain
• Redness and swelling around the sting site
• Itching or a burning sensation
• A visible white or puncture mark

These symptoms usually settle within a few hours. Swelling may increase over 24 to 48 hours before subsiding.

How to Treat Wasp and Bee Stings

1. Remove the Stinger (for Bee Stings)

Scrape the stinger out gently with a flat object such as a credit card. Pulling it with tweezers may squeeze more venom into the skin.

2. Clean the Area

Wash the sting site with cool water and soap. This removes venom and helps prevent infection.

3. Apply a Cold Compress

Use an ice pack wrapped in a clean cloth for 10 minutes at a time. This helps reduce swelling and pain.

4. Take Medication

Use paracetamol or ibuprofen to manage discomfort. Antihistamines such as cetirizine reduce swelling and itching.

5. Soothe Naturally

Apply calamine lotion, aloe vera gel, or a paste of baking soda and water. These reduce irritation and calm the skin.

Recognising Anaphylactic Shock

In some cases, stings from wasps and beescan trigger an anaphylactic reaction. This severe allergic response requires immediate medical attention.

Look out for these warning signs:

• Swelling of the lips, face, or throat
• Breathing difficulty or wheezing
• Fast heartbeat or feeling faint
• Vomiting, nausea, or diarrhoea
• Skin rash or hives spreading beyond the sting site
• Loss of consciousness

These symptoms usually appear within minutes of the sting. Always treat them as a medical emergency.

Emergency Steps for Severe Reactions

1. Call 999 immediately and state that the person is experiencing anaphylaxis.
2. Use an adrenaline auto-injector (EpiPen) if available. Inject into the outer thigh.
3. Lay the person flat and raise their legs, unless breathing difficulty requires them to sit upright.
4. Stay with the person until help arrives. If they lose consciousness, prepare to start CPR if needed.

Even if symptoms improve after using an auto-injector, the person must go to hospital for further monitoring.

Preventing Stings and Nest Encounters

Wasps and bees often nest in lofts, sheds, and wall cavities. During late spring and summer, their activity increases. If you see a steady stream of insects coming from a specific location, you may have a nest nearby.

Common Nest Locations:

• Under roof tiles or guttering
• In garden sheds or compost bins
• Inside wall cavities or loft spaces

Never attempt to remove a nest yourself. Wasps and bees will defend their colony aggressively. Contact a professional pest control team to handle the situation safely.

Our team at Shire Pest Solutions Didcot and Wallingford specialises in nest removal and prevention. We offer safe, prompt, and effective services to protect your property.

Related Advice and Blog Posts

• Preventing Rodent Issues Year-Round in Didcot and Wallingford
• Seasonal Pest Problems in Didcot and Wallingford (and How to Solve Them)
• Why Eco-Friendly Pest Control is the Future in Oxfordshire

Conclusion

Wasp and bee stings are often painful but manageable with the right care. Recognising the signs of a severe allergic reaction and responding quickly could save a life. Prevent stings by staying alert and keeping your property free of nests. If you suspect wasp or bee activity near your home or workplace, contact Shire Pest Solutions today for professional support in Didcot and Wallingford.