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Lynn555
Jul 14, 2013, 12:01 PM
Was stung twice by wasps one week ago. One site still itches just a little but looks fine. The other sting, on the under side of my forearm, is still swollen, red, hot to the touch, and at times very itchy. Have felt fine, it really did not bother me until yesterday. I am conscious of it all the time and it just feels strange. What should I do to treat it? I have a routine appointment with my doctor in three days, is it okay to wait until then to have it seen?

Locrian_44
Jul 14, 2013, 12:45 PM
If you're still alive, you are going to be okay. I suggest a lotion or pills that contain benadryl to alleviate the itchiness. Calamine lotion can help dry out the area and alleviate itching. Wasp stings can be miserable as the itching can be insufferable. Take acetominophen or ibuprofin for pain. Your doctor may prescribe steroids to alleviate itching and swelling. Ice applied to the sting helps, but only while it is being iced.

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. Benadryl pills work too slowly in emergency situations.

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 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.

WebMD (http://firstaid.webmd.com/allergy-insect-sting-treatment)
Anaphylaxis Symptoms, Diagnosis, Treatment & Management | AAAAI (http://www.aaaai.org/conditions-and-treatments/allergies/anaphylaxis.aspx)
Anaphylaxis: MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia (http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/000844.htm)
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)
Wasp Sting - Symptoms, Emergency, What to Do - NY Times Health Information (http://health.nytimes.com/health/guides/poison/wasp/overview.html)