Treating Stings and Allergic Reactions from Black Wasps with White Stripes

Identifying and Treating Stings from Black Wasps with White Stripes

One type of wasp that packs a potent sting is the black wasp with distinctive white stripes. Getting stung by one of these insects can be quite painful and may require medical treatment in some cases.

Read on to learn how to identify black wasps with white stripes, what to expect if you get stung, and tips for treating the sting at home or seeking medical care when needed.

Appearance and Behavior

There are a few different species of black and white striped wasps common in North America:

• Yellowjackets - 1/2 inch long with yellow and black markings.
• Paper wasps - 3/4 to 1 inch long with yellow and rusty brown patterns.
• Hornets - 1 inch long with brown/black bodies and white stripes on abdomen.

These wasps build paper nests and are very defensive of their colonies. They will vigorously sting any perceived threat multiple times.

Signs of a Sting

Getting stung by a black and white striped wasp is quite painful. Signs and symptoms include:

• Sharp burning sensation
• Red raised welt
• Swelling
• Itching
• Bee stinger may be visible in skin

Reactions can range from mild to severe depending on level of allergy. Seek emergency care for systemic signs of allergic reaction.

Treating Mild to Moderate Wasp Sting Reactions

For mild discomfort, swelling or redness at the sting site, these at-home treatments can provide relief:

Remove the Stinger

Use tweezers to gently remove the stinger left behind. Don't pinch or squeeze it, as this may inject more venom.

Wash the Area

Clean the sting area with soap and water to remove traces of venom and decrease risk of infection.

Apply Cold Compress

Wrap ice or a cold pack in a towel and apply to the sting for 10-20 minutes to reduce swelling, pain and itching.

Elevate the Area

If stung on an arm or leg, keep it elevated above heart level to minimize swelling.

Take Antihistamines

Oral antihistamines like Benadryl can help relieve itching and hives.

Use Hydrocortisone Cream

Apply a hydrocortisone cream to the sting to reduce redness, swelling, and itching.

Take Pain Relievers

Ibuprofen, aspirin, or acetaminophen can help reduce discomfort at the sting site.

When to Seek Medical Treatment

In more severe reactions, seek prompt medical care for:

• Extensive swelling beyond the sting site
• Facial, tongue or throat swelling
• Dizziness, fainting, loss of consciousness
• Shortness of breath, wheezing, difficulty breathing
• Rapid heart rate, low blood pressure
• Nausea, vomiting or diarrhea
• Severe pain or swelling of multiple stings

These are signs of a severe allergic reaction that requires emergency treatment.

Allergy Testing

See an allergist for allergy testing if you've had a serious reaction to determine if you're allergic. Skin or blood tests can identify wasp venom sensitivity.

Allergy Shots

Venom immunotherapy involves getting periodic allergy shots to desensitize your body to wasp stings over time. This reduces risk of anaphylaxis.

Epinephrine Auto Injectors

If you have a known wasp allergy, carry epinephrine like EpiPens in case of a sting. Epinephrine can temporarily halt allergic reaction.

Antihistamines and Corticosteroids

Oral antihistamines block allergy symptoms while corticosteroid drugs reduce swelling and inflammation.

Wound Care

Clean the sting site thoroughly to prevent infection and apply antibiotic cream. Elevate the area to reduce swelling.

Preventing Stings from Black and White Striped Wasps

Use these tips to help avoid getting stung:

Eliminate Attractants

Don't leave out food, drink cans, or garbage that may draw wasps close to your home.

Seal Up Access Points

Block holes and cracks where wasps can enter sheds, roof eaves, attics, and other structures.

Knock Down Nests

Carefully remove abandoned nests after dark when wasps are less active using protective gear.

Use Repellents

Apply insect repellent if spending time in areas where wasps are active.

Avoid Swatting at Wasps

Stay calm and still if a wasp approaches rather than waving your arms around or trying to swat it.

Wear Protective Clothing

Cover exposed skin when near wasp nests. Wear light colors since wasps are attracted to dark colors.

What to Do if a Nest is Found on Your Property

Discover a wasp nest on your property? Here are some tips:

Don't Disturb the Nest

Avoid actions that will aggravate wasps and prompt aggressive stinging. Leave the area calmly.

Call a Professional

Hire a licensed exterminator to chemically kill and remove the nest. Attempting this yourself risks getting stung.

Seal Off the Area

Close doors and block access to the section of property with the nest until it can be removed.

Check for New Nests

Keep monitoring areas where old nests have been found to watch for wasps rebuilding.

Apply Insecticides

Treat eaves, attics, and crawl spaces with residual insecticides to deter future nests in those areas.

When to Call 911 After a Wasp Sting

Seek emergency help immediately if stung and suffering any of the following:

• Wheezing or difficulty breathing
• Swelling of the lips, face or throat
• Fainting, dizziness or confusion
• Rapid heartbeat or low blood pressure
• Hives spreading across multiple parts of the body
• Loss of consciousness

Call 911 so an ambulance can provide emergency epinephrine, oxygen, IV fluids, and other treatments for anaphylaxis en route to the hospital.

The Bottom Line

Getting stung by a black wasp with white stripes is quite painful and may require medical treatment. Use cold compresses, antihistamines, pain relievers and other remedies to treat mild reactions at home.

Seek prompt medical attention if you develop signs of a severe allergic reaction. Avoiding nests, wearing protective clothing and using repellents can help prevent stings.

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.