Hornets are large flying eusocial wasps that live in dark places and hollow tree trunks. Hornet stings and stings from other large insects such as bees, yellow jackets and wasps can trigger allergic reactions which may vary. The toxicity of the sting varies from just a typical insect sting to some of the most venomous stings by any insects. Avoidance and prompt treatment are essential in these cases as individuals suffering from anaphylactic shock may die unless treated immediately through an epinephrine (“adrenaline”) injection and careful medical attention thereafter as well.
In the event of a hornet sting, the first step is to try and remove the stinger so that the least amount of venom is injected in to your body. Fortunately, these insects do not leave their stingers behind unlike bees; however this implies that the hornet can sting multiple times. Once this is done, a cold compress should be applied to reduce the pain and swelling. Traditional remedies suggest that for bee stings damp pastes of tobacco, salt, baking soda, red clay, garlic juice, urine, onions, toothpaste or even application of copper coins on the areas affected by the stings may bring relief.
Hornets inject venom deep under the skin and into the dermis tissue. Therefore it is difficult to apply alkalis to neutralize the sting. However, the amount of venom injected is in between 5 and 50 micrograms, which is not very harmful unless the victim is stung multiple times. Recent studies have shown that the traditional methods mentioned above do not really help in any way. Some relief that maybe experienced is due to the mind perceiving benefits of application of the remedy. Ice helps slow down the spread of venom and is one of the best remedies that can be instantly administered to the victim.
A hornet sting may be painful for a few hours; however the swelling or the itching may persist for up to a week afterwards. Scratching the affected area will only increase the itching and swelling and hence must be avoided. Medical attention should be sought if the reaction remains for 7 days and if the swelling covers an area larger than 3-4 inches. Victims who are allergic to bee stings should be treated for shock and carrying a self injecting Epipen may prove life saving. Finally always be careful not to disturb hornet’s nests as they are social wasps and tend to attack in hordes.