If A Wasp Stings You Does It Die

Unlike bees, wasps do not die after they sting someone. In fact, they can sting multiple people, multiple times during their lifetime.

A wasp’s stinger is not like a bee’s stinger. It is designed to be used again and again, striking the possible threat multiple times, and stabbing the intended prey or potential threat like a small needle. A bee’s stinger is barbed at the end, which is why a bee will sting and then die. When the bee takes off, the stinger stays in the flesh of the prey and disembowels the bee. A wasp’s stinger is smooth and does not stick in a person’s flesh. It retracts into the body, able to extend over and over again.

Wasps will attack in large numbers. When a threat is detected, wasps release a pheromone that summons the rest of the soldier wasps. They will pursue a potential threat over long distances and swarm the threat, the entire time stinging repeatedly.

Wasp stings are packed full of venom, which is why they are so painful. Different people have different reactions and having one type of reaction doesn’t mean you’ll always have the same reaction every time you’re stung.

Though painful at first, you may not see much on the skin right away. There could be a small puncture wound and maybe a tiny dot of blood, but that’s about it. However, the area can turn red and the actual sting area will likely swell. Once you see the raised welt, you may see a small white mark near the center. That’s the spot where the stinger entered your skin.

The areas around the wound will be very painful to the touch and the entire area can become quite swollen based upon a person’s threshold for pain and insect stings. Allergic reactions can cause severe swelling and other symptoms which can become very dangerous.

If you have been stung and find yourself having trouble breathing, or the pain is very intense, seek medical attention. Extreme swelling is also a potential sign of trouble and medical attention should be sought then, too.