stickmaker | Ow...

Yellow Jackets aren't supposed to be making new nests this time of year. However, while mowing - for what I hope will be the last time this year - I found one in a place where I had mowed less than two weeks before. Or, rather, the yellow jackets found me! Fortunately, I only got stung once, but it was definitely by a mature YJ with a full dose of venom. It stung me very well on the left knee, right through my pants. Still hurts, nearly an hour later.

I have a raised welt with a red area around it on my knee. I've already applied two medications with lidocaine, so it's probably hurting less than it would otherwise. I also took a Benadryl. After my shower I will try hydrocortisone.

I got stung 4 times in one day a couple of years ago, and one of the stings got infected. Turns out YJs can carry bacteria in their stings, as well as venom, If there's no sign of infection by morning, fine. I there is I'll go to the doctor. Likewise if the swelling hasn't gone down.

Ow.

Update: My knee is better this morning. Probably won't need to go to the doctor.