What to do if stung by a hornet
Nov 25, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Wang Lei
Introduction
In general, treatment for a wasp sting mainly includes removing the stinger, rinsing with an alkaline solution, applying cold compresses to reduce symptoms, using topical medications for relief, and taking oral medications when necessary. During outdoor activities, avoid wasp nests and wear light-colored, long-sleeved clothing. If severe symptoms such as difficulty breathing, dizziness, vomiting, or low blood pressure occur after a sting, call 120 immediately.
Generally, the main methods for treating a wasp sting include removing the stinger, rinsing with an alkaline solution, applying cold compresses to reduce symptoms, using topical medications for relief, and oral medication when necessary. A detailed analysis is as follows:
1. Remove the stinger
After a wasp sting, the stinger often remains embedded in the skin. It should be gently removed using sterilized tweezers or a needle tip. Avoid squeezing the venom sac during the process to prevent additional venom from entering the body. The procedure should be performed gently and precisely to minimize secondary injury to the wound and prepare for subsequent treatment.
2. Rinse with alkaline solution
Wasp venom is acidic, so rinsing the area with an alkaline solution helps neutralize the toxin. Common options include soap water or baking soda solution. Apply the solution to the wound and rinse repeatedly for 3–5 minutes. This effectively reduces the irritant effects of the venom and alleviates discomfort such as redness, swelling, and itching.
3. Cold compress to relieve symptoms
Local blood vessel dilation after a sting can lead to swelling and pain. Wrap an ice pack or cold towel in gauze and apply it to the affected area for 15–20 minutes at a time. The cold temperature constricts blood vessels, reducing local congestion and edema, while also inhibiting nerve ending transmission to relieve pain and itching.
4. Topical medications for symptom relief
Select appropriate topical medications based on symptoms. For significant redness and swelling, apply compound acetic acid dexamethasone cream to reduce inflammation. For severe itching, calamine lotion can help soothe and relieve itchiness. To prevent infection, mupirocin ointment may be applied to form a protective barrier over the wound.
5. Oral medication intervention
If systemic allergic reactions occur—such as widespread rash or intense itching—oral antihistamines should be taken, including cetirizine hydrochloride tablets, loratadine capsules, or fexofenadine hydrochloride tablets. In cases of severe pain, ibuprofen sustained-release capsules may be taken under medical guidance for relief.
During daily outdoor activities, avoid areas near wasp nests and wear light-colored, long-sleeved clothing. If serious symptoms such as difficulty breathing, dizziness, vomiting, or low blood pressure occur after a sting, call 120 immediately. Follow medical advice during treatment and avoid scratching the wound to prevent secondary infection.
