What should you know about rash from a wasp sting?

Pain, redness, warmth, swelling, and itch around the sting are local skin responses. Hives or redness appearing away from the sting suggests the immune response is affecting more of the body. The rash itself does not prove the cause: Contact Dermatitis, Heat Rash, and other conditions may also produce itchy marks. Note the sting time, number of stings, body sites involved, and how quickly symptoms changed.

Move away from the insect and wash the area gently. Apply a wrapped cool pack for short periods and avoid rubbing or scratching. If a stinger is visible, have it removed promptly without squeezing the surrounding skin. Follow an existing prescribed emergency plan exactly, including an adrenaline auto-injector if one has been prescribed. Do not rely on home remedies when symptoms are spreading.

Call emergency services immediately for breathing difficulty, throat tightness, voice change, dizziness, faintness, vomiting, or swelling of the lips, tongue, or face. Widespread hives after a sting can precede a severe reaction even when breathing is currently normal. Arrange medical assessment for a sting in the mouth or throat, multiple stings, worsening swelling, or infection signs such as increasing pain, pus, or fever.

Ask whether the reaction was local or systemic, whether you need an emergency action plan, and whether an allergy referral is appropriate. Ask how long to observe symptoms and which medicines are safe for you.