A Strange “Leaf” on the Floor Nearly Sent Me to the ER — What I Learned About Saddleback Caterpillars and Why You Should Never Touch One Indoors

• A sharp, burning pain
• Redness and swelling
• Tender welts or blisters
• Sensitivity at the sting site for hours
• Headache or nausea in more reactive individuals

Most stings can be treated safely at home with cleaning, cold compresses, and over-the-counter pain relief, but some people — especially children, older adults, or those with allergies — may need medical attention.

The danger isn’t dramatic or life-threatening for most, but the pain is real, and it’s definitely something you don’t want to learn about firsthand.

How Close I Came to Finding Out the Hard Way

Once I realized what it was, a chill ran through me. I had been a breath away from grabbing it with my bare hand. Instead, I backed up and took a deep breath. The little creature wasn’t doing anything wrong — it had probably hitched a ride indoors on a plant or come in through a door left open.Continue reading…