Treatments for Local Sting Reactions

Mild local reactions are treated in broadly the same way - the major difference between wasps and bees is that a bee sting has to be physically scraped out of the wound before treatment whilst the wasp does not leave its sting in the wound. It is usually recommended that the scrape is directed away from the puncture wound in the direction of the venom sac.

There is an interesting tool available called the Aspivenin (I have one always close to hand) which when applied to the puncture wound of an insect sting can literally suck the venom out of the wound by the application of a vacuum. Of course depending on location and timing not all the venom can be sucked out and so for the allergic such a tool should not be relied upon. For the non-allergic this instrument seems a great idea! (See Links Area for further information) and we sell it in our shop.

The main purpose of treating local allergic sting reactions is to reduce local inflamation and this can be readily addressed by the application of a cold compress. There are also a number of branded creams containing anti-histamine or hydrocortisone which may be applied as well as benzocaine spray which can reduce the swellings and the pain.

Folklore tales recommend bicarbonate of soda or vinegar which may be more readily to hand and anecdotal evidence suggests that these home remedies work quite well too. I have had a number of e-mails from this sites visitors confirming that these remedies do work! However whilst they may work in the mind I am dubious about the genuine benefits of these remedies and it is worth visiting my special page to find out why!

Herbal and homeopathic natural remedies are increasingly valued by both patients and their doctors and they have a definite place to play in treating the pain and local reaction to an insect sting and bite. In our on-line shop a carefully selected ray of spray, creams, and pillules are offered as complementary medication to traditional medication.

The pain of a local reaction should start to subside after a few hours and there should be no real reason to see a doctor or practice nurse.

If the pain continues to be unpleasant for more than 18 - 24 hours then there is the possibility that the reaction may remain local but have become infected. In this instances it is worth seeing a medical practitioner who will usually be able to clear the problem with mild antibiotics.