Persistent Discomfort After Wasp Sting: When to Seek Medical Attention

It has been a week since the bee sting, and I still feel uncomfortable?

Hello Doctor, I was stung by a wasp (I didn't see it clearly, but I'm sure it wasn't a bee) a week ago (on July 14) on the area just behind my left ear at the hairline.
At that time, I received a tetanus shot and an antihistamine injection, and the nurse said there was no stinger left.
In the following days, besides the sting site, I also felt some swelling on the left side of my neck.
It took about five days for the swelling in my neck to completely subside, but the sting site is still slightly swollen, and when pressed, there is a very mild pain and itching sensation.
Should I see a doctor, or is there any medication I should apply?
Additionally, I noticed something else that may or may not be related to the sting.
Yesterday (July 21), I suddenly felt a small lump, less than a centimeter, on the left side of my neck just below the earlobe.
It is slightly painful when pressed, and it feels somewhat like an unripe pimple, but it is not red in appearance.
I am certain that I did not have this lump before.
Is this lump related to the wasp sting (even though the two locations are different but quite close)? If not, what could it be? Do I need to seek medical attention? If so, which specialty should I consult? Thank you for your help, Doctor.

Judy, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/08/22

Dr. Ye Qianyu reply Family Medicine

Hello! If possible, I recommend returning to the original clinic where you received treatment for the bee sting, or consulting a dermatologist for further evaluation.

Reply Date: 2022/08/22

More Info

After being stung by a wasp, it is not uncommon to experience localized swelling, pain, and itching at the site of the sting. In your case, it seems that you have been experiencing persistent discomfort a week after the incident, which includes swelling and mild pain at the sting site, as well as a new small lump on your neck.
First and foremost, it is important to understand that wasp stings can lead to various reactions, ranging from mild local reactions to more severe allergic responses. The fact that you received a tetanus shot and antihistamine treatment shortly after the sting is a good step in managing potential complications. However, the ongoing symptoms you describe warrant further attention.

When to Seek Medical Attention
1. Persistent Symptoms: If the swelling and discomfort at the sting site have not improved significantly after a week, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional. While some localized swelling can be normal, prolonged symptoms may indicate an infection or an allergic reaction that requires treatment.

2. New Symptoms: The appearance of a new lump on your neck, especially if it is painful and has developed after the sting, should be evaluated by a doctor. While it could be unrelated to the sting, it is important to rule out any potential complications such as lymphadenopathy (swollen lymph nodes) or an allergic reaction that could be manifesting in a different area.

3. Signs of Infection: If you notice increased redness, warmth, or pus at the sting site, or if you develop fever, these could be signs of an infection, and you should seek medical attention promptly.

4. Allergic Reactions: If you experience symptoms such as difficulty breathing, swelling of the face or throat, or hives, you should seek emergency medical care immediately, as these could be signs of a severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis).

Recommended Actions
- Consult a Doctor: Given your ongoing symptoms, it would be prudent to see a healthcare provider. You can start with your primary care physician or an allergist, as they can evaluate your symptoms and determine if further treatment is necessary.

- Over-the-Counter Treatments: In the meantime, you may consider using over-the-counter antihistamines (like diphenhydramine or loratadine) to help alleviate itching and swelling. Topical corticosteroids can also be applied to the sting site to reduce inflammation.

- Monitoring: Keep an eye on the lump on your neck. If it grows, becomes more painful, or if you develop additional symptoms, seek medical attention sooner rather than later.

Conclusion
In summary, while some discomfort after a wasp sting can be normal, the persistence of your symptoms and the emergence of a new lump suggest that a medical evaluation is warranted. It is always better to err on the side of caution when it comes to your health. A healthcare professional can provide a thorough examination and appropriate treatment options based on your specific situation.

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