From the Guidelines
For redness and warmth after a yellow jacket sting, the most effective treatment is to apply a cold compress for 10-15 minutes every hour to reduce swelling and inflammation, as recommended by the 2024 American Heart Association and American Red Cross guidelines for first aid 1. To alleviate local itching, over-the-counter oral antihistamines can be used, such as diphenhydramine (Benadryl) 25-50 mg every 4-6 hours or cetirizine (Zyrtec) 10 mg once daily, as suggested by the guidelines 1. Some key points to consider when treating redness and warmth after a yellow jacket sting include:
- Applying topical corticosteroids to alleviate local itching, as recommended by the guidelines 1
- Washing the area of the sting with soap and water to keep it clean and prevent infection, as suggested by the guidelines 1
- Considering the administration of over-the-counter acetaminophen and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory agents to alleviate local pain, as recommended by the guidelines 1
- Applying ice or cold packs for local pain relief, as suggested by the guidelines 1 It is essential to note that if a person experiences anaphylaxis due to a bee, wasp, or hornet sting, an epinephrine autoinjector should be self-administered, and the emergency response system should be activated, as recommended by the guidelines 1. Additionally, stings to the eye should be evaluated by a trained medical professional, and removal of a stinger remaining in the skin as soon as possible by plucking or scraping can be beneficial, as suggested by the guidelines 1.
From the FDA Drug Label
NSAIDs are used to treat pain and redness, swelling, and heat (inflammation) from medical conditions such as different types of arthritis, menstrual cramps, and other types of short-term pain.
The treatment for redness and warmth after a yellow jacket bee sting may include NSAIDs such as ibuprofen to help with pain and inflammation. However, it is essential to follow the guidance of a healthcare provider and use NSAIDs exactly as prescribed, at the lowest dose possible, and for the shortest time needed 2.
From the Research
Treatment for Redness and Warmth after a Yellow Jacket Bee Sting
- The standard treatments for large local reactions, which include redness and warmth, are ice, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications, antihistamine medications, and topical or systemic corticosteroids 3.
- In some cases, subcutaneous and intradermal injection of 1% lidocaine with epinephrine into the sting area can provide rapid reversal of symptoms 3.
- For uncomplicated envenomations, conservative therapy such as antihistamines, ice or cool compresses, topical lidocaine, or corticosteroid lotions can be used 4.
- Antihistamines are often sufficient for treating massive local reactions and urticaria 5.
Important Considerations
- It is essential to monitor closely for any signs of anaphylaxis, a life-threatening allergic reaction that can occur within minutes of a sting 4, 5, 6.
- If anaphylaxis occurs, adrenaline (epinephrine) is the primary treatment, which may be supplemented with antihistamines and corticosteroids 5.
- For individuals with a history of anaphylaxis from a previous Hymenoptera sting, immunotherapy (IT) with Hymenoptera venom may be indicated to prevent future anaphylactic reactions 6.
General Guidance
- Most Hymenopteran stings are self-limiting events that resolve within a few hours without treatment 4.
- However, it is crucial to be aware of the potential for life-threatening anaphylactic reactions and to seek medical attention immediately if symptoms worsen or if there are concerns about an allergic reaction 4, 5, 6.