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I Got 1wasp Sting On Each Of My Forearms At
Question: I got 1wasp sting on each of my forearms at 9 am this am. I have used hydro cortisone cream, apple cider vinegar, now calamine spray to calm the itchiness, etc. I normally use Zrytec at night, but I was told to use Benadryllinstead. The redness has spread away from the initial bite areas , but still on the forearms. Being that it is a holiday do I need to be concerned about trying to get a steroid shot by tomorrow?
Brief Answer:
Steroid shot is not necessarily needed
Detailed Answer:
Hello, I'm Dr. Branch, thanks for using 'Ask A Doctor' service.
There are basically two types of local reactions from a wasp sting, an uncomplicated local reaction, which has an area of redness and swelling up to about 5 cm. It sounds like you are already using the usual treatments for these, using cold compresses can also help as well.
Some people get larger reactions, which can typically get up to 10cm in diameter. Sometimes steroids are given for these, but it is just for symptoms of swelling and itching, and the sting reaction should resolve and is not dangerous if you do not take steroids.
Otherwise, it doesn't sound like you are having a generalized allergic reaction, but if you do notice any swelling in your lips or mouth, or you are having trouble breathing, you should go to the ER immediately.
I hope this helps.
Please let me know if you have any questions, and I would be glad to discuss it with you further.
Steroid shot is not necessarily needed
Detailed Answer:
Hello, I'm Dr. Branch, thanks for using 'Ask A Doctor' service.
There are basically two types of local reactions from a wasp sting, an uncomplicated local reaction, which has an area of redness and swelling up to about 5 cm. It sounds like you are already using the usual treatments for these, using cold compresses can also help as well.
Some people get larger reactions, which can typically get up to 10cm in diameter. Sometimes steroids are given for these, but it is just for symptoms of swelling and itching, and the sting reaction should resolve and is not dangerous if you do not take steroids.
Otherwise, it doesn't sound like you are having a generalized allergic reaction, but if you do notice any swelling in your lips or mouth, or you are having trouble breathing, you should go to the ER immediately.
I hope this helps.
Please let me know if you have any questions, and I would be glad to discuss it with you further.
Note: Hope the answers resolves your concerns, however for further guidance of skin related queries consult our Dermatologist.Click here to book a consultation
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Arnab Banerjee
Answered by
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