First aid for wasp stings

Summer essentials for travelling: Summer is the best time for picnics, ice cream and swimming – but unfortunately it’s also peak season for wasp stings. This makes it all the more important that you are well prepared and can react quickly if the worst comes to the worst.

What many of us still underestimate: A wasp sting is not only unpleasant, it can also trigger severe reactions. That’s why we’ll show you what really matters in the first few minutes – and how you can use tried-and-tested household remedies, tips from the emergency first-aid kit and a little helper for when you’re out and about to defuse the sting. We promise: It will be useful.

Tip: If you’re looking for a quick and smart solution, it’s worth taking a look at modern devices such as the IB 100 insect bite healer from medisana. This little helper uses targeted heat to neutralise the proteins in wasp venom – without any chemicals. Simply place it on the sting, press the button, wait three to six seconds – and the pain and itching are noticeably alleviated. Practical: The compact format fits in any pocket and is therefore the perfect to-go instant aid, especially in summer. Also ideal for families, as the device is suitable for children from the age of three.

Wasp stings – what actually happens in the skin?

There is a reason why a wasp sting feels so unpleasant. As soon as the wasp stings, its stinger penetrates the skin – along with a fine venom channel through which the so-called wasp venom is released. And it’s quite something: various proteins and enzymes irritate the pain receptors in your skin and ensure that you feel the effects immediately and long for quick help and relief after a wasp sting.

At the same time, the body triggers an inflammatory reaction: histamine is released, blood vessels dilate – and typical symptoms become noticeable:

• Pain: immediately after the sting, usually stinging or burning
• Swelling: around the puncture site, often several centimeters in size
• Redness & itching: due to the immune reaction and the release of histamine

Of course, this is unpleasant, but initially it is completely normal and for most people it subsides within one to two days. The situation is different if the reaction is more severe – i.e. if the swelling extends beyond the injection site, is extremely itchy or even causes circulatory problems. This is referred to as an excessive local reaction or, in rare cases, even an allergic reaction – in which case immediate help and medical clarification is required after a wasp sting.

Wasp or bee – who stung you?

Bees leave behind their stinger and venom blister when they sting – this means that they sting once and then die. Wasps, on the other hand, usually keep their stinger and can sting several times. If you can still see a stinger after the sting, it was probably a bee. In this case, carefully brush the stinger out to the side or remove it with clean tweezers – do not squeeze it!

When the body sounds the alarm – immediate medical help for allergies after a wasp sting

In most cases, a wasp sting is painful but harmless. The situation is different if your body overreacts. Then a minor sting can quickly turn into a medical emergency – especially for allergy sufferers.

Typical warning signs of an allergic reaction:

• Sudden shortness of breath or a feeling of tightness in the chest
• Swelling of the face, lips, tongue or throat
• Severely itchy skin rash all over the body (hives)
• Circulatory problems, dizziness or even unconsciousness

In such cases, every minute counts. Call the emergency services immediately (112) and provide first aid. If you know that you are allergic to insect bites, you should always – not only for the start of the summer – carry an emergency kit with an adrenaline auto-injector (e.g. EpiPen), antihistamine and cortisone with you – and inform family members or colleagues.

Local reaction or systemic? Swelling over a large area around the puncture site is unpleasant, but generally not dangerous. It becomes critical when the whole body reacts – regardless of where the sting has occurred. This is known as a systemic reaction.

Got caught? Wasp stings and first aid with household remedies and co.

A wasp sting hurts – as anyone who has ever come into contact with the yellow-black flying brigade knows. And it can happen quickly, especially in summer during outdoor activities: Bang, stung. So here’s your first aid wasp sting plan – simple, effective and suitable for everyday use.

• Cooling – the quick classic: Cool packs, an ice cube wrapped in a cloth or a washcloth on the sting site are tried and tested first aid for wasp stings and also if you want to treat mosquito bites. This soothes the pain and provides initial relief.
• Wash & clean: Clean the affected skin area with water and mild soap. This reduces the risk of infection. And even if it’s difficult: please don’t scratch! This spreads germs – and often makes it worse.
• Traditional home remedy: A halved onion on the sting is said to have an anti-inflammatory effect. A drop of vinegar or a paste made from baking soda and water can also reduce itching. Doesn’t work for everyone – but it costs (almost) nothing to try.
• Creams to relieve itching: If it’s really itchy: antihistamine gel or a soothing cortisone cream from the pharmacy will dampen the histamine reaction of your skin.
• Painkillers – if necessary: Painkillers such as ibuprofen or paracetamol can help if the sting is particularly nasty – for example on joints or sensitive skin.

By the way: Wasps are not aggressive pests for no reason – they don’t sting for fun, but for self-protection. Mostly when they feel threatened or their nest is in danger. Their sting is their only means of defense. So if you stay calm, don’t hit them and show a little consideration, many encounters can be resolved quite peacefully.

Caution, special case of first aid: wasp sting in the mouth, throat or face

A sting in these areas can be dangerous because swelling can constrict the airways. If you are stung here, you should immediately suck ice or drink ice-cold water to slow down the swelling. It is important to remain calm, sit upright and call the emergency services (112) immediately. In such cases, don’t waste any time – it’s better to get too much medical help than too little.

Heat as an immediate aid for wasp stings? Why heat really helps

Maybe your grandma used to tell you to press a hot spoon onto the stitch. And even if this sounds like a kitchen myth at first – there’s really something behind it. Because heat is actually an effective immediate aid for wasp and insect stings of all kinds. The heat changes the proteins in the wasp venom (denatures them), which would otherwise cause itching and swelling. At the same time, it inhibits the release of histamine – the very substance that causes the nasty burning, itching and redness. And as a bonus, pain receptors are also temporarily calmed. But … who has a hot spoon to hand at a picnic or on a walk?

That’s why we recommend the IB 100 insect bite healer from medisana. While home remedies are often a matter of luck, the IB 100 insect bite healer provides targeted help at the touch of a button. The selective application of heat is not only effective against pain and itching, but also particularly gentle on the skin – without any chemical additives. Thanks to its compact size, integrated carrying strap and simple operation, it is the perfect companion for on the go. Whether you’re hiking, in the park or at the lake: this gadget is quickly to hand when you need it. Particularly practical for families: the device is also available as a travel kit in a double pack – so you can stay calm when you’re out and about.

Prevention instead of first aid – clever prevention of wasp stings

Of course, it would be best if the sting didn’t happen in the first place. And you can actually significantly reduce the risk with a few simple rules of conduct – without panicking or canceling the picnic.

• No open drinks: Wasps love sweet juices – so always keep a lid on them, especially with cans and glasses outdoors.
• Discreet clothing & no perfume: Bright colors and perfume are like a VIP entrance for wasps. Better: light, muted tones and stay as odorless as possible.
• Stay calm: Waving around, wildly flicking away or running away in panic make wasps really curious (and you the target).
• Watch out when eating: Meat, sweets, fruit – wasps can smell them from miles away. Cover bowls and the like, clear away leftovers quickly and pay particular attention to children’s hands and faces.
• Barefoot? Only with caution: Ripe fallen fruit or clover in the meadow are real wasp magnets. Walking barefoot? Only when looking down – or better leave your sandals on.
• Essential oils: The scent of lavender, peppermint or cloves scares them off. Simply put a few cloves in half a lemon and place on the garden table – or use essential oils in an aroma diffuser.

Important to know: Wasps are a protected species in Germany. They may not be killed and their nests may not simply be removed. If you discover a nest in your area, it is best to contact NABU or a local nature conservation organization.

One final thought: many insect repellents contain substances that are neither good for your health nor for the environment. If you adapt your behavior, you can usually get along peacefully with wasps. And if it does happen: First aid for a wasp sting doesn’t immediately mean a chemical club or panic – a cool head and the right gadget are often enough.

Another summer essential for on the go: anyone who spends a lot of time outdoors will be familiar with the problem of tense shoulders after long car journeys or uncomfortable seating. The medisana NM 870 neck pillow for on the go offers a pleasant vibration massage for the neck and shoulders – exactly where tension often occurs. It promotes muscle relaxation and increases well-being. Thanks to the integrated storage bag, it is perfect for traveling – whether in the car, train or at your vacation destination.