If you enjoy spending time outdoors, it’s not uncommon to find yourself crossing paths with bees and wasps. While in the same family as bees, wasps are more aggressive and cause painful stings. However, unless you’re allergic to wasps, you don’t need a trip to the doctor to reduce the discomfort. After consulting with an organic pest control professional about a possible wasp infestation near your home—and removing the stinger—follow the tips below to ease the sting and subdue the pain.

How to Treat a Wasp Sting

1. Apply Ice

Applying a bag of frozen vegetables or an ice pack to the affected area can help reduce swelling and inflammation by slowing down blood flow and numbing the sting. Elevate the area and leave the ice on for about 10 minutes and then remove it for 10 more minutes. Repeat the process until the pain has subsided. 

2. Use Vinegar

Organic pest control experts recommend using vinegar, as it’s a natural remedy that reduces pain from a wasp sting. The solution’s acidity neutralizes the wasp’s venom. Using apple cider or white vinegar, soak the cotton swab and apply it to the affected area for 15 minutes. If you want a hands-free approach, soak a gauze or a cloth in vinegar and apply it to the sting using medical tape to ensure it stays in place.  

3. Try Over-the-Counter Medication

First, wash the affected area with soap and water. You can then apply a medicated ointment, such as hydrocortisone cream, to reduce the swelling and take an over-the-counter painkiller to alleviate the pain. Antihistamines can also help reduce the itchiness of the sting. Additionally, you can apply aloe vera to soothe the tenderness around the affected area and dab a light layer of calendula cream—an antiseptic—directly on the sting to boost healing. Cover it with a bandage to ensure it’s not disturbed or irritated.

If you’ve identified multiple wasps nests on your property, turn to the organic pest control experts at Dick’s Fumigation Services in Wailuku, HI, for safe removal. For over 65 years, this locally owned and operated company has offered high-quality organic pest control solutions to residential and commercial customers throughout Maui. Give them a call today at (808) 244-7496 to speak with an exterminator about your wasp removal needs or visit them online to learn more about their services.