Lymphedema & Yellow Jacket Sting

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Katiejane
Katiejane Member Posts: 789
edited April 2016 in Lymphedema

  Hi All,

  Just a quick question--I was stung by a yellow jacket on my back today.  I have arm and truncal LE and am concerned that this may have some negative repercussions. Any feedback would be appreciated.   Katiejane

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  • TenderIsOurMight
    TenderIsOurMight Member Posts: 4,493
    edited September 2008

    Certainly hope it does not cause problems for you, katiejane. We had another member have this a bit ago.
     
    Any break in the skin is a source for bacteria, so getting the stinger out, a good antiseptic and some antibiotic may be wise. In terms of local inflammation from the bite raising the risk of infection, I can see it both ways. The sting reaction may heighten the local immune response, therefore perhaps allow quicker temporary response to any bacteria present. The temperature change of the skin (local warmth) may provide a better niche for growth.
     
    Soon others will be by, and Binney may know more direct answers. You can always mark the red area with a marking pen, and then keep an eye on it for expansion which may prompt a call to your doctor.
     
    Best to you,
    Tender 
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  • Binney4
    Binney4 Member Posts: 8,609
    edited September 2008

    Katiejane, I'm sorry about the sting. Ouchy! But I gotta say your post made me smile with its calm mention of "negative repercussions" instead of the more colorful exclamations we might expect under the circumstances. Laughing

    Last year about this time Doreen had the unfortunate experience of having a wasp take up residence in her night sleeve, and I'm happy to report she had no negative repercussions from that fracus. (Except the difficulty of finding somewhere to store her sleeve where the beasties couldn't get into it again.)

    Keep the area clean, apply a topical antibiotic from time to time, do a bit of extra massage to counteract the normal swelling from the sting, and watch it carefully for any sign of infection. If you sense trouble like that, head to the ER. Better safe than sorry (as LindaLou so vividly reminded us lately!) If you can't see it clearly (since it's on your back, after all) do get someone to check it for you a couple of times a day

    How nuts is it that we have to go to so much trouble over a sting!!Tongue out When I fell into a hole and broke my leg last year I also skinned the back of my LE hand. None of my would-be rescuers could understand why I was sitting there with a broken bone yelping for antibiotic salve for the "minor" scrape on my hand! It's another world. Wink

    Keep us posted, and do be well!
    Binney

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  • Katiejane
    Katiejane Member Posts: 789
    edited September 2008

      Tender & Binney,  Thanks for your responses.  I had already done what you suggested and I just happen to be on some antibiotics so things will probably be just fine.  Even had the husband do some fluid movement in my back just so the "venom" didn't sit in one concentrated spot.  I try to be so careful but the damn thing just appeared, buzzed my head and the next thing I feel is the sting right through my shirt!  Ouch is right!!!!  Anyways, thanks for getting back to me so quickly!

    Katiejane

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  • Moderators
    Moderators Member Posts: 25,912
    edited April 2016

    baxoruhe, welcome to our community. Tell us a bit about yourself. Are you here for information? Do you have a breast cancer diagnosis?

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