Okay. You talked me into it. And so I went.
The wasp/hornet (MURDER HORNET!?) sting was not getting any better, and in fact quite a bit worse despite the abundance of Benadryl in my system and doing all of the icing down to help with the burning and inflammation.
My brain kept saying “But it’s just a bug bite. The body knows how to handle this – that’s why the inflammation is there.”
It wasn’t until I shared a photo for my nurse friends on Facebook that I was really encouraged to “Hurry up already and get that seen to!”
So I’m posting a photo below – it’s not terrible, horrible – the worst part is my hair is wet because I decided to actually take a shower to feel more human before going.
When was the last time you shared a selfie of your arm pit?
I was dreading going. The last place I have wanted to be through this whole pandemic thing is anywhere near a medical facility where SICK people go.
And I guess I wasn’t alone in that way of thinking because the ER was basically empty.
I checked in. I waited only a few minutes before they had me in a room. Two nurses took vitals and got all of my info in the system. I barely turned on the TV before the doctor walked in.
Wasp stings can cause serioius cellulitis. I felt stupid for not knowing this. I mean – who knew?
They gave me meds right there in the room. More Benadryl (ob yeah – here comes sleepy town!) and a couple different antibiotics and steroids.
The CVS pharmacy was already closed, so I had enough meds in my system to last me until this morning when I go back to pick up my prescriptions.
We are just laying low!
Ice helps…because the itching is deep down and the area is fiery hot.
There is no big push to do anything other than heal today. I’m sure I’ll be out for the count as the next round of Benadryl kicks in.
Anyone else up for a low key Monday?
Quiltville Quote of the Day-
It's a brand new week ahead. What's in your line of plans?
PS....I really love the stripes in this vintage quilt!
cellulitis is no picnic....you did the right thng...
ReplyDeleteHope you'll be feeling much better soon!
ReplyDeleteGlad you took the experts advice! Heal today! Lay low! Take care of yourself!
ReplyDeleteSo glad you “caved” & went to the ER! Just relax today - you’ll be in a fog most of the day anyway! Not ( I repeat not) a day for any kind of sewing or cutting! Take care!
ReplyDeleteGlad you went. I'm the same way, will put off going as long as possible. It's cloudy here on the coast of NC at 9a.m. and so a good day to 'lay low'; Take your meds and listen to your body....
ReplyDeleteso glad you went. Take care of yourself
ReplyDeleteOuch that looks so painful, just as well to get it checked out. Hope it heals up quickly.
ReplyDeleteStay safe
Love and quilty hugs
Anne xxx
I was stung by a wasp in the exact same spot and it turned into cellulitis. Sorry you have to go through this.
ReplyDeleteSo glad that you went to the ER. Wishing you quick relief and complete healing.
ReplyDeleteHope the meds do their job quickly! Enjoy your Benadryl-induced sleep and rest up for another day at the sewing machine...
ReplyDeleteSo glad you put all that advice to good use and wishing you a quick and complete recovery.
ReplyDeleteIt's good that you went, Bonnie! Sending healing thoughts your way.
ReplyDeleteGlad you got it looked at. . . I would have been the same, it's just a bug bite, I'll be fine. . . .so take it easy (the benadryl will make that happen!) and just chill.
ReplyDeleteOuch! I swell and swell from wasp stings--glad you got it checked out. Take care of yourself.
ReplyDeleteSo glad you went to the ER. I know many people that don't get the much needed care thinking much the same as you. Hopefully, you'll be good in no time.
ReplyDeleteSo very happy you went to the doctor. Thanks for taking care of yourself . You are encouraging so many and making the pandemic easier for so many more. Not only that I like you. Only one class and a dinner but you made an impression!
ReplyDeleteI had no idea. You learn something everyday. Speedy healing thoughts coming your way.
ReplyDeleteI'm so sorry. Hope you get better soon.
ReplyDeleteFunny how dogs know you are not well they hunker down close by and do the look every time you move you know the one” are you ok mum”?
ReplyDeleteGlad you went in. Kathy has had cellulitis twice and it is crazy scary...turned into sepsis and she was admitted for days. Glad you caught it early. Benedryl k ocks me out too, ugh! Feel better girl.
ReplyDeleteI hope you find comfort soon. Rest, heal, and rejuvenate.
ReplyDeleteThat looks like a nasty sting. Laying low today is a good idea let the meds and your body do it’s job to remove the venom from your system. Take care today. I so enjoy your pictures of Zoey. I miss my dog.
ReplyDeleteSo glad you got medicine. Take It easy. We want you healthy and sewing. 🥰
ReplyDeleteIt'll be awhile B4 any posts for this are seen(Admin is touring SleepyTown!) But my heart aches to know you're suffering! For most of us, you're a kid sister, a niece, etc. You're FAMILY! Praying for your healing! 🙏🙏🙏 If that occurred on your property, please get a pest control inspection.😟
ReplyDeleteFeel better soon. We have more quilting to do !!
ReplyDeleteAww hope you feel better soon Bonnie. That looks like a bad bite. I spent the day tidying my workroom and hubby replaced the rails on my Grace frame. I knew it needed done as my sewing was very bumpy in places . Turns out there were at least 3 cracks but not too bad after 5 years of heavy use!
ReplyDeleteBest wishes for a speedy recovery. Critters can be soooo mean! Hugs 🤗
ReplyDeleteYAY for our Bonnie!! Rest well!
ReplyDeleteGlad you went and glad they were on it giving you enough meds for the night.... Rest and feel better soon! Kathi
ReplyDeleteMy plan is to get a tire replaced. I found a screw in the "corner" - where the tread meets the side wall - of my tire when I was headed.to work last night. My nephew quickely put my donut on my car and I got to work at 6 pm. I got off at 6 am and waited outside the tire shop to get my tire replaced under warranty. Only problem is the new tire will not be here until 10 am at the earliest or 12 noon at the latest.
ReplyDeleteI was supposed to work tonight but had to trade for tomorrow night as you are only supposed to drive 70 miles on a donut and if i go home, I can't get back to pick up new tire. So, I wait. No table to set.up sewing machine. I do have it with me.
Thank you for going! That looked nasty! You are a smart gal. Sending good thoughts for quick healing!
ReplyDeleteOh mercy! So sorry. I have been bit on the under part of my upper arm like that and know about deep burning and itching. It's ok to take a day off. Keep that arm elevated too!
ReplyDeleteMy plan is to get a tire replaced. I found a screw in the "corner" - where the tread meets the side wall - of my tire when I was headed to work last night. My nephew quickely put my donut on my car and I got to work at 6 pm. I got off at 6 am and waited outside the tire shop to get my tire replaced under warranty. Only problem is the new tire will not be here until 10 am at the earliest or 12 noon at the latest.
ReplyDeleteI was supposed to work tonight but had to trade for tomorrow night as you are only supposed to drive 70 miles on a donut and if i go home, I can't get back to pick up new tire. So, I wait. No table to set.up sewing machine. I do have it with me.
Best decision and action on your part. Hope someone can pick up your prescriptions for you so you don't have to drive and that you will feel better soon.
ReplyDeleteWishing you a speedy recovery! First day of school Distance Learning style here. My little one is starting 3rd grade and I'm a speech therapist with the school district. I've got a quilt halfway done on the long arm that I'm itching to finish but it will have to wait until this evening. Here goes nothing!
ReplyDeleteFeel better!
ReplyDeleteSo glad you went....I liked your common sense approach up to a certain point...get well quickly...we can't have anything happen to our star quilter!! So enjoy your offerings!
ReplyDeleteglad and relieved you got "professional" help... all good thoughts, prayers and blessings...quick & complete healing, rest, and hand stitching if the spirit moves ya -- Cats in Carlsbad CA
ReplyDeleteI’m so glad that you had that sting checked out- better to be safe!
ReplyDeleteI am glad you went to the ER.
ReplyDeleteMuch rest and ice in your future, sending healing prayers!
ReplyDeleteGlad you listened and went to ER.
ReplyDeleteWhat a relief to know you went in for medical care, you had me worried😬 Today I hope to get in more Corn and Beans block piecing, it's getting close to crunch time as the quilt is due at my friend's long arm place in September. The quilt is to be king size too!! What was I thinking??😳
ReplyDeleteHope you are feeling better today and the itch is leaving your arm.
ReplyDeletefeel better soon, not something to mess with as you were able to be seen and have medication. POISON for some people, one of mine would die- severe allergic.
ReplyDeleteMy body responds exactly the same way! I remember growing up in the country getting stung by every kind of stinging bugs there was and it always healed itself up in just a few days,now I have to go meds for it to force my body to heal...ugh!!!Hope you are feeling much better very soon!!
ReplyDeleteI had a wasp sting a few years ago on my elbow. My arm swelled from wrist to armpit and took 10 days to finally go away. I carry an Epi-pen now!
ReplyDeleteBonnie...so glad that you are OK! This type of hornet is nothing but dangerous! I am attaching a link to what has happened here in Wisconsin very recently..... https://www.channel3000.com/school-administrator-dies-of-hornet-attack-complications/?fbclid=IwAR31SFERO_3SIkiUQCg-4jQ-h4RQCkH1-cKyCibsZEqK02nXRp6WM78rh0c
ReplyDeleteI would have never known that could happen from a wasp sting. So glad you went to the ER and so glad you shared this so we're all informed.
ReplyDeleteMaybe you have started the trend of ArmPit selfies! 👍🙏
ReplyDeleteSo glad that you decided to brave the emergency room. Hope your armpit is so much better soon. I am laying low today because after 3 days of getting granddaughter moved into her "hotel" dorm room, I am exhausted. LOL The dorms for her group are not completed so the University has rented a Hampton Inn until the end of September. If you ever thought that 2 girls in a dorm room could be tight, well try a hotel room. LOL
ReplyDeleteSo sorry to hear. I highly recommend this product https://www.bite-away.com/en/. We keep bees and I have a strong reaction to bee stings. Most insect venom is not heat tolerant.
ReplyDeleteWhich is why your body heats the area. It tries to destroy the venom. This device puts out heat.You need to be fast, the faster after being stung, the better. hold it on the sting and you will have a smaller reaction. I don't mean people who are allergic, just a regular reaction to stings will be diminished. I think it was developed for life guards in Germany. the good thing is, as it is not any medication it is safe to use on anyone. Your retreaters for example. Just last week my daughter got stung, bite away - = minimal reaction. Try it.
Wow, glad you listened to the nurse's advice. Feel better soon!
ReplyDeleteThat looks painful. Very glad you went to get serious treatment.
ReplyDeleteSorry to break it to you, but this sting is not going to be a 'one day and done' project. Mine always take a week to 10 days even when I go to get medical attention. It always amazes me how small an amount of their venom can cause such misery. See if you can find Rescue (brand) bag traps. THEY WORK! (no affiliation)
ReplyDeleteSo sorry to here this. I would share your anxiety about the ER waiting room. Sure sounds like things will take a turn for the better now. Yes, rest! If you husband is the caregiver type, go for it! :) If I was your close-by neighbor I would come and pamper you a bit.
ReplyDeleteYay, Bonnie! I'm like you, I would have resisted going to the doctor for "just a bug bite" so I have learned yet another thing from you 😊 Yesterday the lake was packed for our hottest day of the year so far. We were able to social distance, but sound really carried over the water, and it was mostly happy having fun sound all around, so we floated and got cool. Our lake never gets really warm, cold water is coming up from springs underground, so it's warm on top with cold patches and cold feet. 😁💦 At dusk we had a thunderstorm and lightning knocked out the power, so it was a long hot night with no fan. Ahhhhh, joys of summer, I reveled in the heat and re-lived my childhood. Today is not as hot but still warm so we'll be in the lake again. Rest well and best wishes!
ReplyDeleteGlad you went to the ER! Cellulitis can be life threatening if left untreated. Happy you are on the mend and are taking it easy today.
ReplyDeleteThat is wicked looking! So glad you broke down and went to the ER! Rest and recover. Hugs!!
ReplyDeleteI got cellulitis (blood poisoning) from a house cat bite! It was not fun and almost led to IV antibiotics. Thank goodness you are on the mend!
ReplyDeleteI’ve had that before - it took sometime for it to completely go away so don’t get discouraged . Definitely more than just one day ! I hope you feel better soon XOXOXO
ReplyDeleteGlad you went in! They treated you just like I guessed they would!
ReplyDeleteAn almost retired nurse.
Bonnie, so glad that you went for help. Now you can rest and allow your body to heal...but still keep an eye on it and if it isn't getting better, go back again! I know you'll do great. You have great furry nurses to keep you company. :)
ReplyDeleteSooo very glad you're getting the rest and meds you need to recuperate. I didn't know that bug bites can cause cellulitis either until this summer when my adult daughter got stung by a hornet in her lashline. We were told to take her to ER promptly so that they could handle any kind of infection. I was just as surprised by this as you were. Rest and get well.
ReplyDeleteHope the swelling and itching goes down quickly and you'll be back to your normal self. Take care.
ReplyDeleteThanks for sharing the result with us... I hoped you would go in... Now is not an optimal time, but sometimes no choice. Please take care of yourself. Blessings,
ReplyDeleteHope for a speedy recovery! Zoey must know how you are feeling. Get well soon and hope you are feeling better!
ReplyDeleteWhat I use for stings is Adolph's Meat Tenderizer. Make a past with water (spit, if you have to) and apply it liberally. The enzymes in the tenderizer neutralize the poison in the sting. It always works for me. But I'm glad you went to the ER.
ReplyDeleteWe are never to old to learn new things.
ReplyDeleteI did the same thing a couple weeks ago. Prednisone kicked in in 2 days and I was so much better. The wasp list goes vinegar or baking soda. Meat tenderizer for bees. That said it won't help with the swelling. Ice and benyldryl, then go to urgent care after a day or so. Now you know. Those "Ice Peas" they sell are wonderful. Get well soon.
ReplyDeleteYou did the right thing going to the ER. That is an allergic reaction if I ever saw one. It may be a good idea for you to keep an EPI pen on hand. I swell up like that with any bee, wasp, hornet, yellow jacket sting, but larger. It has been like that for me since the 70's.
ReplyDeleteI wish I could of taken it easy today, but finished up the fence building around the high tunnel area, so now can start actually planting, now that the moose can't get in. Then finished laying typar (ground cloth), marked rows w/ posts, etc. My mini Farm has made a lot of progress this summer. No sewing happening, but growing is!
I Hope you are feeling better real fast. Baking soda paste also takes the sting out of bites, as does diluted ammonia water (Old time country helps my grandmother always used).
Donna E.
Kasilof, AK
Where it has been sunny and HOT!
Oh man, so sorry you are going through this! I had a bad one on my big toe years ago and I was swollen up to and including my ankle and infection had started to spread in two days! I feel your pain! Praying you heal quickly and get back to what you love!
ReplyDeleteOooh, get better Bonnie. I know that experience. Bugs FIND me, and chomp me. I must be like a deserts bar, they come from miles around. I have a couple of horrible huge bites in June. Now I remember to spray my entire body with repellent and of course all of the clothes have to be washed bc house kitties do not like the smell. Anyway, YOU are suffering and I know the feeling. Ice helps, tv helps, you should be feeling better soon with all of our miracle drugs we are so fortunate to have. Steroids are powerful.
ReplyDeleteI am praying for you dear
As a child I used to go barefoot a lot. Stepping on a bee kept my foot twice its size for a week or so. I send compassion and hope for a quick recovery.So glad to hear there are remedies to help overcome this bite and you made decision to go to Emergency Rm.
ReplyDeleteBonnie, Glad you went to get medical assistance. It also gives one reassurance and one can relax a bit too. Hope it clears up quickly. The sting looked so angry.
ReplyDeleteBonnie,
ReplyDeleteHappy to hear you are now home healing and in meds to treat that. Tic bites can also cause cellulitis also ask me how I know......
Sleep well and tomorrow is another day.
Patty B.
Dear Bonnie: I'm so glad you finally went in to ER so you will be on the mend now. Thanks so much for all you do and your e-mails are much appreciated. Love the quilts, the puppy doggies, and kitties too!
ReplyDeleteLow-key Monday was not in the cards for me. Five hours in the ER in Cooperstown, NY where we are camping. Kidney stones are NOT fun.
ReplyDeleteJust take it easy and get this thing under control. As you know fabric doesn't just disappear with no action - it will be there when you are feeling better.
ReplyDeleteHope you feel better soon!
ReplyDeleteAloe, castor oil wraps, cbd ointment all work well for me for things like this. Never been hit by a wasp & don't want to now that I know how bad it is. Enjoy your Benadryl naps.
ReplyDeleteOH yes!! a few years ago got 4! yep 4 stings from hornet on my arm,in my bed. I know Whaaaat? wood stored in the house in winter gets warm, and the buggers come to life, Got severe cellulitis, and could hardly move my whole arm. My Chinese herbalist gave me oils to rub over and swelling was down in a matter of hours. A week later stepped on one and got stung again. Rubbed on oils, limited relief so off I go to ER. Told severe reaction and from now on must carry Epipen. Have not ever had to use by avoiding flying wasps, hornets bees. Oh and no more wood in house in winter. Good luck. Pegeth
ReplyDeleteYou need to watch this... https://www.cbsnews.com/video/invasion-asian-giant-hornets-have-arrived/ My friend ordered wine from the west coast and in the box was one of these hornets. Thankfully they killed the hornet before getting stung. Just be aware... Glad you are OK. Anna
ReplyDelete