Does a hornet hurt worse than a wasp?

Yes, a hornet sting generally hurts worse than a typical wasp sting, such as yellow jacket or paper wasp, because hornets are larger, have larger stingers, and inject more venom per sting, causing more intense burning pain and swelling, though pain perception varies by species and individual sensitivity. Bald-faced hornets, European hornets, and especially Asian giant hornets deliver more venom than smaller wasps, with venom containing higher concentrations of acetylcholine and other pain-causing chemicals, leading to sharper, more throbbing pain that lasts longer. On sting pain scales, hornet stings are often rated slightly higher than yellow jacket stings, with bald-faced hornet described as rich and smoky with lingering pain and European hornet as deeply painful. Yellow jacket stings are also painful, described as hot and smoky, but usually less intense due to smaller venom amount. Both can sting multiple times unlike honeybees, so multiple stings increase pain. For allergic individuals, both can cause severe reactions, but larger venom load from hornet may increase risk. Most people who have experienced both report hornet stings hurt worse, with more swelling and longer recovery, sometimes several days. Treatment is similar, clean area, apply ice, take antihistamine or pain reliever, monitor for allergic reaction, and seek emergency care if breathing difficulty or facial swelling occurs.