2 yrs ago I was stung by a red wasp and had an allergic reaction, treatment was 25mg benedryl and a steroid. Last year was stung again but by a yellow jacket same deal, went to ER due to signs of allergic reaction and was given 25mg benedryl and steroid. If I get stung again, would an ER visit be required if I immediately take 25 or 50mg of benedryl? I am 45, healthy, eat quite well, exercise regularly yet a little overweight. BP is 110/70 and pulse is 42 (those are normal numbers for me on any given day)

If the allergic reaction is bad yes. Usually each time gets worse. You might try carrying a bee sting kit

Learn the symptoms of anaphylaxis, because anaphylaxis can happen later, even if it doesn't happen the first time. Anaphylaxis is a life-threatening allergic reaction to an insect sting and other allergens.

What was your reaction? Local swelling, itching? Local reactions generally do not require emergency room care.

Any systemic reactions - reactions away from the site of the sting, such as labored breathing, hives, throat/tongue swelling, abnormal heart rhythm, indicate that you may be severely anaphylactic.

The National Poison Control Center (1-800-222-1222) can be called from anywhere in the United States. This national hotline number will let you talk to experts in poisoning. They can give you further instructions.

Anaphylaxis happens quickly. Benadryl pills probably work too slowly in emergency situations. You might not give yourself the proper dose if you self medicate. A doctor would never prescribe a dose on a website like this. Epinephrine is used in emergency situations. Your doctor can subscribe an Epi-pen.

Bee & Wasp Sting: Treatment and First Aid (http://firstaid.webmd.com/allergy-insect-sting-treatment)
Bee and Wasp Sting Symptoms, Causes, Treatment - What is the treatment for a bee or wasp sting? on MedicineNet (http://www.medicinenet.com/bee_and_wasp_sting/page4.htm#what_is_the_treatment_for_a_bee_or_wasp_ sting)
Anaphylaxis: MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia (http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/000844.htm)
Anaphylaxis Symptoms, Diagnosis, Treatment & Management | AAAAI (http://www.aaaai.org/conditions-and-treatments/allergies/anaphylaxis.aspx)
Wasp Sting - Symptoms, Emergency, What to Do - NY Times Health Information (http://health.nytimes.com/health/guides/poison/wasp/overview.html)