They first bite and then sting one or more times while holding on with their jaws. Some symptoms of fire ant stings include burning and itching. Approximately a day later a white pustule usually forms. If scratched, these pustules can become infected. So when you do get stung, it is important to treat the stings and prevent infection.
Fire ants have a unique venom, which is an oily alkaloid mixed with a little protein.
Your one chance to lessen the pain from the sting is to quickly break down the protein. However, this method doesn't work if more than 15 minutes have passed. Another option is to treat the sting with an insect bite remedy containing benzocaine or another ingredient that will deaden pain and protect against infection. Some people are highly sensitive to fire ant stings. Just one sting can lead to chest pains, nausea, severe sweating, loss of breath, serious swelling or slurred speech.