How to Treat Yellow Jacket Stings

Yellow jackets grow throughout the summer but are at their most aggressive as the summer turns into fall. Unfortunately, their nests are often camouflaged by leaves and dirt and can be accidentally disturbed with ease. A yellow jacket sting is a painful experience, and, like honeybees, they are capable of causing complications.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Assess the severity of the sting. If you have been stung ten or more times, or on the inside of your mouth, call 911 immediately.

2. If you have no history of allergic reactions to insect stings, clean the wound with soap and water and apply ice to reduce the swelling. If you do have a history of minor allergic reactions, take an oral antihistamine as well, such as Benadryl.

3. Monitor the sting for four hours. Insect stings can result in an immediate reaction (within four hours), or a delayed reaction (which takes place later, up to a week after the sting). Immediate reactions will include swelling, pain at the sting site, and perhaps even low-grade fever, nausea, and aches. Individuals who suffer a delayed reaction may report hives, joint pain, fever and fatigue, and may be at risk for an anaphylactic reaction after a later sting.

4. Anaphylaxis-- which usually sets in within twenty minutes of the initial sting, and always within two hours--can cause swelling, breathing difficulties, cramping, vomiting, irregular heartbeat and even death. If you detect any of these, or other severe symptoms--difficulty swallowing, confusion, chest tightness, serious weakness--call 911 immediately.

5. If you have a history of severe or anaphylactic reactions, self-administer an injection of epinephrine, which you should have on hand at all times. After your injection, call 911. You should also wear a bracelet that identifies your sensitivity to medical professionals.

Tips & Warnings

• Yellow jackets are most attracted to dark or flower-patterned clothing, and least attracted to white colors. They are also attracted to scents, such as scented deodorants and strong perfumes. Dress appropriately, with long sleeves and pants if you are concerned about the possibility of a yellow jacket sting.
• Individuals who suffer a delayed reaction to a sting might consider immunotherapy, which can help grant resistance to insect venom with the help of shots.
• Don't swat at a pesky yellow jacket: it may call in reinforcements from a nearby hive. If a yellow jacket approaches you, freeze until it flies away on its own.

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