Identifying Little Red Wasps and Treating Their Painful Stings

Understanding Little Red Wasps and Their Stings

Little red wasps can pack a painful sting, leading many to wonder "what bit me?" when they get stung. Learning to identify little red wasps and their stings can help you get proper first aid and avoid future stings.

Appearance of Little Red Wasps

Several different wasp species have predominantly red bodies and black wings, ranging from 0.5 to 1.5 inches long. They include:

• Red paper wasps
• Red velvet ants
• Ruby paper wasps
• Red aerial yellowjackets

Despite the name, red velvet ants are actually a type of wingless wasp. All of these little red wasps can give a painful sting if provoked.

Little Red Wasp Nesting Habits

Little red wasps make nests in different locations depending on species:

• Red paper wasps - Umbrella-shaped nests in trees, shrubs, or under eaves
• Ruby paper wasps - Single comb nests in trees or bushes
• Red aerial yellowjackets - Underground or in rock crevices and hollow logs
• Red velvet ants - Underground in old rodent burrows

Avoid disturbing nests and watch for them when gardening or doing yardwork to prevent stings.

Little Red Wasp Stings

Though small, a sting from a little red wasp packs a punch. The venom contains histamine and other compounds that produce the following reaction:

• Sharp burning pain
• Redness and swelling
• Itching
• Raised welt
• Blister

Stings are most common on the feet, legs, and arms. Multiple stings at once can cause a severe reaction in sensitive individuals.

Treating Little Red Wasp Stings

To treat a little red wasp sting:

1. Wash the area with soap and water to remove venom
2. Apply a cold compress to relieve swelling and pain
3. Elevate the area if possible
4. Take antihistamines to control itching and swelling
5. Use hydrocortisone cream to ease irritation
6. See a doctor for severe reactions like trouble breathing

Avoid squeezing the sting as this can spread venom. Over-the-counter sting relief sprays and creams can also provide symptom relief.

Signs of Infection

Monitor sting sites for signs of infection for several days after, including:

• Increasing redness, swelling, pain
• Pus or foul-smelling discharge
• Streaking redness
• Fever

See a doctor right away if infection develops to get proper treatment with antibiotics or a tetanus shot if needed.

Allergic Reactions to Stings

In rare cases, some people may experience a severe allergic reaction to little red wasp venom. Symptoms include:

• Hives or rash spreading across body
• Swelling in throat and mouth
• Wheezing or difficulty breathing
• Pale or bluish skin
• Feeling faint or dizzy
• Nausea or vomiting

Anaphylaxis is a medical emergency requiring epinephrine and a trip to the ER. Those with prior reactions should carry an EpiPen.

Preventing Little Red Wasp Stings

You can take steps to avoid stings from little red wasps when outdoors:

• Wear shoes, long sleeves and pants when hiking or gardening
• Inspect areas before sitting down
• Wear light colors instead of dark which attract wasps
• Avoid bright, flowery prints
• Don't wear sweet perfumes or lotions
• Have nests near your home removed
• Avoid swatting at wasps

Being aware of surroundings and warning signs like hovering wasps can help prevent stings.

When to Seek Emergency Care

Seek emergency medical care if you experience:

• Trouble breathing or swallowing
• Swelling of the lips, face, throat, or tongue
• Hives or rash over the body
• Dizziness, confusion, or fainting
• Nausea, cramps, or vomiting
• Palpitations or fast heartbeat

Call 911 or have someone drive you to the ER if you have severe symptoms of anaphylaxis after a wasp sting.

Identifying Little Red Wasps

Being able to identify little red wasps can help you avoid stings. Look for these key features:

Red Paper Wasp

• Slender, red body 0.5-1 inch long
• Long, dangling, reddish-brown legs
• Dark red wings
• Builds umbrella-shaped nests in trees and shrubs

Red Velvet Ant

• Fuzzy red body up to 1 inch long
• No wings
• Bright red color
• Makes underground nests

Ruby Paper Wasp

• Small, skinny red wasp 0.5 inches long
• Solid deep red color on body and wings
• Makes single comb nests
• Found mainly in southwest states

Red Aerial Yellowjacket

• Red and black striped abdomen
• Yellow and black striped head
• Underground nests with tunnels
• 1/2 inch long

Learning to spot little red wasps can help you steer clear and prevent painful stings in the future.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.