What To Do If You're Stung By A Wasp?

With the arrival of warmer weather, wasp stings become a common nuisance across UK gardens, parks and outdoor spaces. While rarely dangerous for most people, they can be painful and occasionally serious. Here’s our expert advice on what to do if you’re stung by a wasp, how to treat it, and when to seek medical attention.

Immediate Treatment for a Wasp Sting

If you're not allergic to wasps, most stings can be treated at home. Follow these steps right away:

1. Remove the stinger (if visible)

Wasps rarely leave their stinger behind, but inspect the sting site carefully. If needed, gently scrape it out with a clean fingernail or a bank card.

2. Clean the affected area

Wash the skin thoroughly with soap and warm water to reduce infection risk.

3. Apply a cold compress

Place an ice pack or cold flannel on the area for 10-minute intervals. This will help reduce swelling and numb the pain.

4. Relieve discomfort

Apply over-the-counter creams like hydrocortisone, antihistamine cream, or calamine lotion. Pain relief tablets such as ibuprofen or paracetamol can also help.

Natural Remedies for Wasp Stings

Some people find natural remedies soothing:

Bicarbonate of soda paste – mix with water and apply directly.
Lemon juice or vinegar – gently dab onto the sting to neutralise venom.
Aloe vera gel – reduces inflammation and soothes the skin.

Note: Always do a patch test first to check for skin sensitivity.

When to Seek Medical Help

Call 999 or seek immediate help if you experience:

Swelling in the face, throat, or tongue
Breathing difficulties or wheezing
Dizziness or fainting
Rapid heart rate
A widespread rash or hives
Signs of infection like pus, spreading redness or increasing pain

How to Avoid Getting Stung

Prevention is always better than cure. Here are a few tips to stay safe:

Don’t leave food or drinks uncovered outside
Avoid bright clothing or strong fragrances
Move slowly and calmly if a wasp approaches
Seal bins and dispose of waste properly
Keep windows closed or fit insect screens

If you know you are allergic, carry an EpiPen and use it as directed.

Need Professional Wasp Control?

If you’ve spotted a wasp nest on your property, it’s essential not to disturb it. Wasps can become aggressive quickly. At Wallace Pest Control, we provide safe, effective wasp nest removal across the Ribble Valley and the North West.

Call us today on 07496 680879 or contact us to request a visit.
We’re local, discreet, and fully certified for pest control services.