What happens when you get stung by a yellow jacket? You might have experienced this first hand, or if you’re like me and have no idea what they are, then you might know someone who has. This article discusses home remedies for yellow jacket stings – the most helpful remedies, what to do if the treatment doesn’t work, and even some interesting cautions.
What is a yellow jacket?
A yellow jacket is a type of wasp. Yellow jackets are common in the United States and Canada, and they can be a nuisance because they sting people. Yellow jackets are attracted to crops and other areas where food is stored, so keeping your home free of food sources will help keep them away.
How to identify a yellow jacket
If you are stung by a yellow jacket, the best way to identify it is by its size. Yellow jackets average six inches in length and have black wings with a yellow band across the middle.
How to avoid being stung by a yellow jacket
When you encounter a yellow jacket, the first thing you should do is identify the type of insect. The yellow jacket is one of three types of stinging insects in North America. If you know the type of insect, you can better prepare yourself for the sting.
If you do not know the type of insect, here are some tips to help avoid being stung:
-Stay calm and stay aware of your surroundings.
-If you are outdoors, stay in an area well-lit and away from bushes and tall grasses.
-If you are indoors, keep doors and windows closed and use air conditioning or fans.
-If you are attacked, don’t fight back. Try to remain still and calm. Use your hand to cover your face or neck if it is possible.
Symptoms of a stung person
When a person is stung by a yellow jacket, the venom from the sting can cause many different symptoms. These include pain and swelling at the site of the sting, along with difficulty breathing and fever. Here are some home remedies that may help relieve some of these symptoms:
– Apply ice or cold compresses to the sting. To make an ice pack, fill a plastic bag with ice and place it on the affected area. Leave it on until the pain subsides.
– Take ibuprofen or other pain relievers.
– Elevate the victim’s leg if possible. This will help to relieve pressure on the heart and lungs.
– Bathe the area in warm water and soap to help remove any venom remaining.
Home Remedies for Yellow Jacket Stings
If you find yourself getting stung by a yellow jacket, there are some home remedies that you can try to help relieve the pain. Most of these remedies will just require a little bit of patience, but they’re all worth a try if you’re experiencing significant discomfort.
First and foremost, keep the area clean and dry. This will help to reduce the swelling and itchiness that often comes with yellow jacket stings. If you can’t avoid getting stung, apply an ice pack to the affected area as soon as possible. Don’t forget to keep the ice on for at least fifteen minutes.
If the pain is really intense, you can try applying a topical anesthetic such as lidocaine or bupivacaine. These creams will numb the area so that you don’t have to feel the pain as much. However, be aware that these medications can also cause drowsiness and difficulty breathing, so use them with caution.
If all else fails, you can go to a hospital for treatment. However, most yellow jacket stings are relatively minor and can be treated at home without having to go to the ER. So don’t hesitate to give these remedies a try before heading to the hospital.
Disclaimer
The information in this blog is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. If you are experiencing an allergic reaction or any other health complication, please seek prompt medical attention.
Learn some home remedies for yellow jacket stings to reduce the pain and inflammation.