How to treat insect bites and stings at home. What are the first aid steps for bug bites. When to seek medical attention for insect stings. How to remove ticks and stingers safely. What remedies provide relief from bite symptoms.

First Aid Essentials for Insect Bites and Stings

Insect bites and stings are common occurrences, especially during outdoor activities. While most can be treated at home, knowing the proper first aid steps is crucial for quick relief and preventing complications. Here’s what you need to do immediately after being bitten or stung:

1. Remove any remaining stinger, tick, or hairs from the skin
2. Clean the affected area thoroughly with soap and water
3. Apply a cold compress or ice pack to reduce swelling
4. Elevate the affected area if possible
5. Avoid scratching or bursting blisters to prevent infection

Is it necessary to use traditional home remedies like vinegar or baking soda? These remedies are generally ineffective and not recommended by medical professionals. Instead, focus on proven methods to alleviate discomfort and promote healing.

Proper Techniques for Removing Stingers and Ticks

Removing stingers and ticks promptly and correctly is essential to minimize the risk of further venom release or disease transmission. Here are the recommended methods:

Removing a Stinger

To remove a stinger left in your skin:

• Use a hard-edged object like a credit card or your fingernail
• Scrape the stinger out sideways
• Avoid using tweezers or pinching the stinger, as this may spread venom

Removing a Tick

For tick removal:

• Use fine-tipped tweezers or a specialized tick removal tool
• Grasp the tick as close to the skin’s surface as possible
• Pull upward with steady, even pressure
• Clean the bite area with soap and water
• Apply antiseptic cream to the surrounding skin

Can you use household items like lit cigarettes or petroleum jelly to remove ticks? These methods are not recommended as they may cause the tick to release more saliva, increasing the risk of disease transmission.

Managing Caterpillar Hair Exposure

Certain caterpillars, like those of the oak processionary moth, can cause skin irritation. If you come into contact with caterpillar hairs:

• Use tweezers or a pen to carefully remove the caterpillar
• Rinse your skin with running water
• Use sticky tape to remove any remaining hairs
• Apply calamine lotion or ice packs for itch relief
• Wash contaminated clothing at high temperatures

Should you use a towel to dry off after rinsing? It’s best to air dry instead, as toweling may further spread the irritating hairs.

Effective Symptom Relief for Insect Bites and Stings

While most insect bites and stings heal on their own, various treatments can help alleviate discomfort:

For Pain and Discomfort

Over-the-counter painkillers like paracetamol or ibuprofen can provide relief. Note that aspirin should not be given to children under 16 years old.

For Itching

Consult your pharmacist about:

• Crotamiton cream or lotion
• Hydrocortisone cream or ointment
• Antihistamine tablets

For Swelling

Try these methods to reduce swelling:

• Apply cold compresses or ice packs regularly
• Use antihistamine tablets as recommended by your pharmacist

Are there any natural remedies for insect bite relief? While some people swear by natural remedies like aloe vera or tea tree oil, their effectiveness varies. It’s best to stick with proven medical treatments for consistent relief.

Recognizing When to Seek Medical Attention

While most insect bites and stings can be managed at home, certain situations require professional medical care. Contact your GP or call NHS 111 if:

• Your symptoms worsen or don’t improve within a few days
• You’ve been stung or bitten in the mouth, throat, or near the eyes
• A large area (10cm or more) around the bite becomes red and swollen
• You show signs of a wound infection (pus, increasing pain, swelling, or redness)
• You experience symptoms of a widespread infection (fever, swollen glands, flu-like symptoms)

How can you differentiate between a normal reaction and one requiring medical attention? Pay attention to the size of the affected area, the duration of symptoms, and any signs of infection or systemic reactions.

Emergency Situations: When to Call for Immediate Help

In rare cases, insect bites or stings can lead to severe allergic reactions known as anaphylaxis. This is a medical emergency requiring immediate attention. Dial 999 for an ambulance if you or someone else experiences:

• Wheezing or difficulty breathing
• Swelling of the face, mouth, or throat
• Nausea or vomiting
• Rapid heart rate
• Dizziness or fainting
• Difficulty swallowing
• Loss of consciousness

Do all severe reactions occur immediately after a bite or sting? While most severe reactions occur within minutes, some can be delayed by up to 24 hours. It’s important to remain vigilant and seek emergency care if these symptoms develop at any time following an insect bite or sting.

Prevention Strategies: Minimizing Insect Bites and Stings

While it’s impossible to completely avoid insect bites and stings, there are several measures you can take to reduce your risk:

• Use insect repellents containing DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus
• Wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants when outdoors, especially in wooded areas
• Avoid wearing strong perfumes or scented products that may attract insects
• Keep food covered when eating outdoors
• Stay away from stagnant water where mosquitoes breed
• Use mosquito nets when sleeping outdoors or in areas with high insect populations

Are natural insect repellents as effective as chemical ones? While some natural repellents like citronella or eucalyptus oil can provide some protection, they generally don’t last as long as chemical repellents and may need to be reapplied more frequently.

Understanding Different Types of Insect Bites and Stings

Various insects can cause bites or stings, each with potentially different reactions and treatments. Here’s an overview of common culprits:

Bee and Wasp Stings

These often cause immediate pain, redness, and swelling. Bee stings leave the stinger behind, which should be removed promptly.

Mosquito Bites

Typically result in small, itchy bumps that can last for several days. Some people may have more severe reactions.

Tick Bites

Often painless but can transmit diseases like Lyme disease. Prompt and proper removal is crucial.

Spider Bites

Most spider bites are harmless, but some species can cause more severe reactions. If you suspect a bite from a dangerous spider, seek medical attention.

Ant Bites

Fire ants and some other species can deliver painful bites or stings, often resulting in itchy, red bumps.

Can you always identify the insect that bit or stung you? It’s not always possible to identify the specific insect, but knowing the general type can help guide treatment and determine if medical attention is necessary.

Long-term Effects and Complications of Insect Bites

While most insect bites and stings heal without complications, some can lead to more serious issues:

• Allergic reactions: Some people may develop severe allergies to certain insect stings or bites
• Infection: Bacteria can enter through the bite site, especially if it’s scratched or not properly cleaned
• Disease transmission: Some insects can transmit diseases like Lyme disease, West Nile virus, or malaria
• Scarring: In rare cases, severe reactions or improper care can lead to scarring
• Psychological effects: Repeated severe reactions may lead to anxiety or phobias related to insects

How can you reduce the risk of long-term complications from insect bites? Proper immediate care, avoiding scratching, and seeking medical attention when necessary are key steps in preventing complications. For those with known severe allergies, carrying an epinephrine auto-injector and wearing a medical alert bracelet can be lifesaving.

Special Considerations for Children and Pets

Children and pets may be more vulnerable to insect bites and stings, and may require special care:

For Children

• Use age-appropriate insect repellents
• Dress them in protective clothing when outdoors
• Teach them not to disturb insect nests or swat at flying insects
• Monitor them closely for any signs of allergic reactions
• Keep their fingernails short to minimize damage from scratching

For Pets

• Use veterinarian-approved flea and tick preventatives
• Check pets for ticks after outdoor activities
• Keep pets away from areas where insects are likely to nest
• Consult a veterinarian if you notice excessive scratching or signs of distress

Are there any insect repellents safe for both humans and pets? While some natural repellents like citronella may be safe for both, it’s best to use species-specific products recommended by medical professionals or veterinarians to ensure safety and effectiveness.

Emerging Treatments and Research in Insect Bite Management

The field of insect bite and sting treatment is continually evolving. Some areas of current research and development include:

• New formulations of insect repellents with longer-lasting effects
• Improved antihistamines with fewer side effects
• Development of vaccines against insect-borne diseases
• Advanced techniques for venom immunotherapy to prevent severe allergic reactions
• Innovative tools for tick removal and bite treatment

What promising developments are on the horizon for insect bite treatment? Researchers are exploring the use of RNA interference technology to create highly specific and effective insect repellents. Additionally, advancements in understanding the immune response to insect bites may lead to more targeted treatments in the future.

As we continue to expand our knowledge of insect bites and stings, it’s crucial to stay informed about the latest prevention methods and treatment options. By combining traditional wisdom with cutting-edge research, we can better protect ourselves and our loved ones from the discomfort and potential dangers associated with insect bites and stings.

Insect bites and stings – Treatment

Most insect bites will improve within a few hours or days and can be treated at home.

First aid for insect bites and stings

To treat an insect bite or sting:

• Remove the sting, tick or hairs if still in the skin. 
• Wash the affected area with soap and water.
• Apply a cold compress (such as a flannel or cloth cooled with cold water) or an ice pack to any swelling for at least 10 minutes.
• Raise or elevate the affected area if possible, as this can help reduce swelling.
• Avoid scratching the area or bursting any blisters, to reduce the risk of infection – if your child has been bitten or stung, it may help to keep their fingernails short and clean.
• Avoid traditional home remedies, such as vinegar and bicarbonate of soda, as they’re unlikely to help.

The pain, swelling and itchiness can sometimes last a few days.

Removing a sting

If you’ve been stung and the sting has been left in your skin, you should remove it as soon as possible to prevent any more venom being released.

Scrape it out sideways with something with a hard edge, such as a bank card, or your fingernails if you don’t have anything else to hand.

Don’t pinch the sting with your fingers or tweezers because you may spread the venom.

Removing a tick

If you’ve been bitten by a tick and it’s still attached to your skin, remove it as soon as possible to reduce your risk of picking up illnesses such as Lyme disease.

To remove a tick:

• Use a pair of tweezers that will not squash the tick (such as fine-tipped tweezers) or a tick removal tool (available from pet shops or vets).
• Grip the tick as close to the skin as possible to ensure the tick’s mouth isn’t left in the skin.
• Pull steadily away from the skin without crushing the tick.
• Wash your skin with water and soap afterwards, then apply an antiseptic cream to the skin around the bite.

If you use a tick removal tool follow the manufacturer’s instructions.

Do not use a lit cigarette end, a match head or substances such as alcohol or petroleum jelly to force the tick out.

Dealing with caterpillar hairs

If a caterpillar of the oak processionary moth gets on your skin:

• Use tweezers or a pen to remove it.
• Try not to disturb it (for example, by brushing it with your hands) as it will then release more hairs.
• Rinse your skin with running water, allow it to air dry and then use sticky tape to strip off any leftover hairs.
• Use calamine, ice packs or a pharmacy remedy containing 3.5% ammonia to relieve the itch.
• Remove all contaminated clothes and wash at as a high a temperature as the fabric allows.

Do not towel yourself dry after rinsing or use creams containing antihistamine.

Relieving the symptoms of an insect bite or sting

If you have troublesome symptoms after an insect bite or sting, the following treatments may help:

• For pain or discomfort – take over-the-counter painkillers, such as paracetamol or ibuprofen (children under 16 years of age shouldn’t be given aspirin).
• For itching – ask your pharmacist about suitable treatments, including crotamiton cream or lotion, hydrocortisone cream or ointment and antihistamine tablets.
• For swelling – try regularly applying a cold compress or ice pack to the affected area, or ask your pharmacist about treatments such as antihistamine tablets.

See your GP if these treatments don’t help. They may prescribe stronger medicines such as steroid tablets.

When to get medical advice

Contact your GP or call NHS 111 for advice if:

• you’re worried about a bite or sting
• your symptoms don’t start to improve within a few days or are getting worse
• you’ve been stung or bitten in your mouth or throat, or near your eyes
• a large area (around 10cm or more patch of skin) around the bite becomes red and swollen – your GP may refer you to an allergy clinic for further tests or treatment (read about treating allergies)
• you have symptoms of a wound infection, such as pus or increasing pain, swelling or redness – you may need antibiotics
• you have symptoms of a more widespread infection, such as a fever, swollen glands and other flu-like symptoms

When to get emergency help

Dial 999 for an ambulance immediately if you or someone else has symptoms of a severe reaction, such as:

• wheezing or difficulty breathing
• a swollen face, mouth or throat
• feeling sick or being sick
• a fast heart rate
• dizziness or feeling faint
• difficulty swallowing
• loss of consciousness

Emergency treatment in hospital is needed in these cases.

Page last reviewed: 08 July 2019
Next review due: 08 July 2022

Insect bites and stings: First aid

Most reactions to insect bites and stings are mild, causing little more than redness, itching, stinging or minor swelling. Rarely, insect bites and stings, such as from a bee, a wasp, a hornet, a fire ant or a scorpion, can result in severe reactions. Some insects also carry disease, such as West Nile virus.

For mild reactions

To take care of an insect bite or sting that causes a mild reaction:

• Move to a safe area to avoid more bites or stings.
• If needed, remove the stinger.
• Wash the area with soap and water.
• Apply a cool compress. Use a cloth dampened with cold water or filled with ice. This helps reduce pain and swelling. If the injury is on an arm or leg, elevate it.
• Apply 0.5 or 1 percent hydrocortisone cream, calamine lotion or a baking soda paste to the bite or sting several times daily until your symptoms go away.
• Take an antihistamine (Benadryl, others) to reduce itching.

Usually, the signs and symptoms of a bite or sting disappear in a day or two. If you’re concerned — even if your reaction is minor — call your doctor.

When to seek emergency care

Call 911 or your local emergency number if the injured person experiences:

• Difficulty breathing
• Swelling of the lips, eyelids or throat
• Dizziness, faintness or confusion
• Rapid heartbeat
• Hives
• Nausea, cramps or vomiting
• A scorpion sting and is a child

Take these actions immediately while waiting for medical help:

• Ask the person if he or she is carrying an epinephrine autoinjector (EpiPen, Auvi-Q, others) to treat an allergic attack.
• If the person says he or she needs to use an autoinjector, ask whether you should help inject the medication. This is usually done by pressing the autoinjector against the person’s thigh and holding it in place for several seconds.
• Loosen tight clothing and cover the person with a blanket. Don’t give him or her anything to drink.
• If the person is vomiting, position him or her to prevent choking.
• Begin CPR if the person shows no signs of circulation, such as breathing, coughing or movement.

Feb. 17, 2018

Show references

1. AskMayoExpert. Stinging insect allergy. Rochester, Minn.: Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research; 2017.
2. Stinging insect allergy: Tips to remember. American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology. http://www.aaaai.org/conditions-and-treatments/library/allergy-library/stinging-insect-allergy.aspx. Accessed Jan. 9, 2018.
3. LoVecchio F. Scorpion envenomation causing neuromuscular toxicity (United States, Mexico, Central America, and Southern Africa). https://www.uptodate.com/contents/search. Accessed Jan. 9, 2018.
4. Kermott CA, et al., eds. Emergencies and urgent care. In: Mayo Clinic Guide to Self-Care. 7th ed. Rochester, Minn.: Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research; 2017.
5. Insect stings. Merck Manual Professional Version. http://www.merckmanuals.com/professional/injuries_poisoning/bites_and_stings/insect_stings.html. Accessed Jan. 9, 2018.
6. What to do in a medical emergency. Bites and stings. American College of Emergency Physicians. http://www.emergencycareforyou.org/Emergency-101/Emergencies-A-Z/Bites-and-Stings/. Accessed Jan. 9, 2018.
7. Castells MC. Insect bites. https://www.uptodate.com/contents/search. Accessed Jan. 9, 2018.
8. Campbell RL, et al. Anaphylaxis: Emergency treatment. https://www.uptodate.com/contents/search. Accessed Jan. 9, 2018.

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Insect Bites and Stings | What to do | Treatment & Advice

Dr Sarah Jarvis MBE

Insect stings

What is the treatment for an insect sting?

Most insect stings (of which the most common are bee and wasp stings) result in a mild local skin reaction.

If you develop a mild local skin reaction:

• A cold compress will ease any pain and help to minimise any swelling – for example, use a cold flannel or an ice pack.
• A painkiller such as paracetamol or ibuprofen may help if you have any pain.
• If it is itchy, you may not need any treatment, as itching often soon fades. However, sometimes an itch persists for hours or days. No treatment will take the itch away fully but the following may help:
• Crotamiton ointment (which you can buy at pharmacies) is soothing when rubbed on to itchy skin.
• A steroid cream may be useful – for example, hydrocortisone which you can buy at pharmacies or obtain on prescription. A doctor may prescribe a stronger steroid cream in some cases.
• Antihistamine tablets may be useful if you have lots of bites. In particular, a sedative antihistamine at night may help if the itch is interfering with sleep. A pharmacist can advise on which types of antihistamine are sedative and can help with sleep

Bee stings
If you are stung by a bee, treat the mild skin reaction as above.

If the stinger is still in place – scrape it out:

• Scrape out a bee sting left in the skin as quickly as possible. Use the edge of a knife, the edge of a credit card, a fingernail, or anything similar.
• The quicker you remove the sting the better; so use anything suitable to scrape out the sting quickly.
• Do not try to grab the sting to pluck it out, as this may squeeze more venom into the skin. Scraping it out is better.

Wasp stings
Wasps do not leave a stinger in the skin when they sting. If you are stung by a wasp, treat the local skin reaction as above.

Localised allergic reaction

Some people are allergic to insect stings. If you aren’t severely allergic (you can find out more about severe allergic reactions below), you will notice swelling at the site of the sting. This will probably become larger over several hours and then gradually go away over a few days. The size of the swelling can vary but can become many centimetres across. The swelling may even extend up an entire arm or leg. The swelling is not dangerous unless it affects your airway. However, if it is severe, the skin may break out in blisters.

If you develop a localised allergic reaction:

• Take an antihistamine tablet as soon as possible. You can buy these at pharmacies, or obtain them on prescription. Antihistamines block the action of histamine, which is a chemical that is released by certain cells in the body during allergic reactions.
• Use a cold compress to ease pain and to help reduce swelling. For example, use a cold flannel or an ice pack.
• Painkillers such as paracetamol or ibuprofen can help to ease the pain.
• Continue with antihistamines until the swelling eases. This may be for a few days.
• See a doctor if the swelling is severe. Your doctor may prescribe a short course of steroid tablets to counter the inflammation.

The treatment for insect stings is pretty much the same as for bites. Stings are more likely to cause a serious allergic reaction, the treatment for which is described below.

Generalised allergic reaction

This is an uncommon but more serious reaction to an insect sting (and occasionally an insect bite). It happens most often with wasp stings. About a quarter of people who are stung by a wasp or bee have some kind of allergic reaction. Only in a small proportion of these is the reaction severe. This severe reaction is called anaphylaxis and without quick treatment you would soon become unconscious. A small number of people die every year as a result of this kind of severe reaction, usually because they do not obtain treatment quickly enough.

Symptoms of a severe reaction
These include:

• Itchy skin in many parts of the body, followed by an itchy blotchy rash that can appear anywhere on the body.
• Swelling of your face, which may extend to the lips, tongue, throat and upper airway.
• A sense of impending doom.
• Tummy (abdominal) cramps and feeling sick.
• Dilation of the blood vessels, which can cause:
  • General redness of your skin.
  • A fast heart rate.
  • Low blood pressure, which can make you feel faint or even cause you to collapse.
• Wheezing or difficulty in breathing, due to an asthma attack or the throat swelling.

A severe generalised reaction will usually develop within 10 minutes of a sting.

If any symptoms of a generalised allergic reaction develop

See above, and then:

• Call an ambulance immediately.
• If you have been issued with an adrenaline (epinephrine) pen, use it as directed straightaway. (You must however still call an ambulance.)
• You may be given oxygen and injections of adrenaline (epinephrine), steroids and antihistamines in hospital to counter the allergic reaction.
• Some people require a fluid ‘drip’ and other intensive resuscitation.

Serious non-allergic reactions

If you have many bee or wasp stings at the same time, this can also cause serious illness. This is usually directly due to the high dose of venom, rather than to an allergy.

When should you seek medical advice?

Following an insect bite or sting, itching and redness of the skin are common and may last for up to 10 days. As long as your symptoms are improving and you feel well in yourself, you don’t need to seek help. Your pharmacist can offer advice and treatment, including with antihistamine tablets.

You should seek medical advice if the sting looks infected (see below), if you develop symptoms of a generalised allergic reaction, or if you have a skin reaction that seems to be persistent and/or spreading.

Insect bites

How do you treat insect bites?

Insect bites are treated in the same way as insect stings, except you don’t have to worry about scraping off a stinger.

When should you seek medical advice?

As with insect stings, you should seek medical advice if the bite looks infected, you develop a generalised allergic reaction or you have a skin reaction that persists or spreads.

Which insect bites cause swelling?

Biting insects that are common in the UK include midges, gnats, mosquitoes, flies, fleas, mites, ticks and bedbugs. They can all cause swelling or bumps on the skin.

• A small itchy lump (papule) which may develop up to 24 hours after a bite. This typically lasts for several days before fading away. Sometimes some redness (inflammation) surrounds each papule.
• A wheal is a red, slightly raised mark on the skin, which is often itchy but temporary. It may develop immediately after being bitten. A wheal lasts about two hours but is often followed by a small itchy solid lump which develops up to 24 hours later. This can last for several days before fading away. 

How do you know if a bite or sting is infected?

Occasionally, a skin infection develops following a bite, particularly if you scratch a lot, which can damage the skin and allow germs (bacteria) to get in. The signs of infection will be redness and tenderness around the bite. You may also develop a yellow discharge from the area. This is called pus.

Over a period of several days, the infection may spread and, sometimes, can become serious. Redness and swelling that starts and spreads quickly is more likely to be due to allergy than to infection. If the skin around a bite becomes infected then you may need a course of antibiotics. This is not commonly needed but you should seek help if your symptoms become significantly worse or worsen rapidly, or you begin to feel unwell in yourself (with fever, dizziness, chills, etc).

A word on Lyme disease

If you’re bitten by a tick, you may develop a ‘bull’s-eye’ rash over several days. This usually starts as a red mark which migrates outwards to form a bigger and bigger circle, centred around where the bite happened. You will often end up with a red central mark surrounded by a pale area, with a red circle outside this, making it look like a bull’s eye.

If you develop a rash like this you should see your GP, even if you weren’t aware of being bitten by a tick. This could be an early sign of a condition called Lyme disease. Other symptoms include fever, feeling hot and shivery, tiredness, general aches and pains and sometimes neck stiffness.

If you’ve been bitten by a tick and you develop any of these symptoms, especially the bull’s -eye rash, seek medical help. Your doctor should treat you with a course of antibiotics.

Allergies to insect stings

• In the UK most allergic reactions are caused by wasp stings.
• About a quarter of people who are stung by a wasp or bee have some kind of allergic reaction.
• You do not have an allergic reaction after a first sting by a particular type of insect. You need one or more stings to ‘sensitise’ your immune system.
• Sometimes it takes many stings to sensitise you. This is why some beekeepers who have had many previous stings may suddenly develop an allergic reaction to a bee sting.
• Bee and wasp venoms are different. People who are sensitised and ‘allergic’ to wasp venom are rarely allergic to bee venom.
• About 1 in 5 people who have had a previous generalised allergic reaction to a sting have no such reaction, or only a milder reaction, to a further sting. Therefore, if you have a generalised reaction to a sting, it does not necessarily mean it will happen again if you are stung again.
• However, the course can be variable. A series of stings may result in a generalised allergic reaction, no reaction and then another generalised allergic reaction. The reason why some people have variable reactions to a series of stings is not clear.

In short, if you have an allergic reaction to a sting, you cannot predict what will happen next time you are stung. Your doctor may refer you to an allergy clinic if a sting has caused a generalised reaction or you have developed a large local skin reaction with redness and swelling over 10 cm.

An allergy clinic will be able to do tests to confirm the type of venom or insect to which you are allergic. There are then two possible options which may be considered:

1. Emergency medication: you are given a supply of emergency medication to use when necessary. Some people are given a preloaded syringe of adrenaline (epinephrine) together with a written treatment plan to cope with any future reactions. You (and relatives) can be taught how and when to use the treatments provided.
2. Desensitisation: you are given injections of tiny amounts of venom from the type of insect that causes your allergic reaction. Repeated doses of venom over several weeks can ‘desensitise’ your immune system and so you will not react severely next time you are stung. This treatment involves some risk of causing a severe reaction, so it is not undertaken lightly. It is only available in certain specialised centres.

Preventing insect bites and stings

When out and about

Bites and stings most commonly occur when outside, particularly in the countryside.

The following measures are recommended to reduce the risk of stings from bees and wasps:

• Wear light-coloured clothing.
• Avoid strong fragrances, perfumes and highly scented shampoos.
• Wear shoes while outdoors and cover your body with clothing and a hat. Use gloves while gardening.
• Avoid picking fruit from the ground or trees.
• Avoid drinking out of opened drink bottles or cans to prevent being stung inside the mouth.
• Wash hands after eating or handling sticky or sweet foods outdoors (especially children’s hands).
• Keep uneaten foods covered, especially when eating outdoors.
• Always contact professionals to remove bee or wasp nests.
• Wear full protective clothing while handling bees.

Ways to avoid bites include:

• Wear long-sleeved clothing and long trousers in places where insects are common.
• Avoid brightly coloured clothes, cosmetics, perfumes or hair sprays, which attract insects.
• Rub an insect repellent on to exposed areas of skin.
• A complete head covering with a plastic viewer. Where midges are common, some people wear these when out – for example, when camping next to lakes and rivers. Many camping shops sell them.

There is no evidence that eating garlic, vitamin B1 or other foods will repel insects.

Tick bites

The tick usually clings to the skin. Remove the tick as soon as possible after the bite, using fine tweezers or fingernails to grab the tick as close to the skin as possible. Pull it gently and slowly straight out and try not to squeeze the body of the tick. Clean the site of the bite with disinfectant. (Traditional methods of tick removal using a burned match, petroleum jelly, or nail polish do not work well and are not recommended.)

One type of tick carries a germ called Borrelia burgdorferi which causes Lyme disease. See the separate leaflet called Lyme Disease for more details.

How to Identify and Treat Bug Bites | Health Answers

From mosquitoes to flies to fire ants, some of the biggest pests come in small sizes.

In many cases, bites from these types of insects are harmless, and only cause temporary discomfort. Still, if you’ve ever had an itchy bug bite or a bug bite with swelling, you know just how bothersome bug bites can be. Learn how to identify and get relief from bug bites.

Identifying bug bites

It can be tricky telling what insect bit you. Here’s how to pinpoint other bug bites vs. mosquito bites:

• Mosquitos: Mosquitoes are most active from dusk to dawn, and usually lurk in humid, shaded areas near standing water, such as pools and lakes. Bites result in a stinging sensation followed by a red, itchy mound with a tiny puncture mark at the center.
• Flies: Flies are often found around garbage, food or animal waste. Their bites appear as painful, itchy bumps that may turn into small blisters.
• Fire ants: Fire ants are found on lawns, parks and pastures. Their bite causes an immediate painful, burning sensation, followed by swelling. Cloudy fluid may develop inside the bite.
• Fleas: Fleas only tend to be a problem if you have a pet living in your home. They cause a group of small bites clustered together, typically on areas of your body where clothing fits tightly.
• Bed bugs: Bed bugs hide in beds, chairs, couches, between cushions and in the folds of curtains. They’re more likely to bite at night, and are more active in warm weather. They cause two or three itchy, red bumps in a row that may be topped with a blister.

Bug bite symptoms

Specific symptoms vary based on the type of insect that bit you. Bug bite symptoms can include:

• A small, raised or red bump(s)
• Pain
• Itching
• Swelling
• Blistering

Some people develop an allergic reaction to bug bites. However, allergies to stinging insects, like bees and wasps, are more common. If you have rashes from bug bites or any of these signs of an allergic reaction, seek medical help right away:

• Trouble breathing
• Hives (red bumps) on areas of your skin where you weren’t bitten
• Red, swollen bite that worsens
• Headache or dizziness
• Nausea or vomiting
• Chest pain
• Increased heart rate
• Swelling of your lips, tongue or face

Why do bug bites itch?

Some bugs inject venom into your skin when they bite you, causing an itching sensation. Mosquitoes leave their saliva behind when they bite, which also causes itchiness. Try not to scratch bug bites because itching can lead to infection.

Bug bite treatments

Here’s how to stop bug bites from itching and feeling painful:

• Gently clean bites with soap and water, taking special care not to break blisters.
• Apply a cool compress or ice pack to the affected area. This can help reduce swelling and pain.
• Apply an over-the-counter (OTC) anti-itching cream, such as calamine lotion or hydrocortisone, to the bite several times a day until symptoms go away. Or take an OTC oral antihistamine. Baking soda paste can be used as an alternative if you prefer home remedies for bug bites. Mix baking soda with water until you get a paste consistency and apply it directly to the bug bite.

Before you try other natural remedies, such as essential oil for bug bites, talk to your health care provider. It isn’t known if certain oils will aggravate some bug bites.

See your health care provider if your bite looks like it’s getting worse or you cannot get itch relief. You should also contact your provider if you have signs of infectious bug bites, including redness, warmth, swelling or drainage at the site of the bite or a fever, so you can get treatment. In some cases, cellulitis, a bacterial infection that affects the skin and underneath tissue, can develop after a bug bite.

How long do bug bites last?

Bothersome symptoms from bug bites tend to only last a day or two.

Bug bite prevention

Note that bites from mosquitoes, ticks and fleas can carry certain viruses or parasites that can make you sick. For example, there have been cases of West Nile virus and Zika virus in the U.S. from mosquitoes, and in other parts of the world, mosquitoes can carry malaria and yellow fever. Ticks are known to spread Lyme disease and Rocky Mountain spotted fever. You can help protect yourself from mosquito, tick and flea bites and any harmful germs that they may carry by taking these actions:

While many bug bites are nothing more than minor nuisances, see your health care provider if your bite gets worse or if you have signs of an allergic reaction or infected bug bite. Your provider can offer treatment recommendations so you can get relief.

Published on March 28, 2019

Sources:

“Tips to prevent and treat bug bites,” American Academy of Dermatology Association. Web. 14 February 2019.
https://www.aad.org/public/skin-hair-nails/injured-skin/bug-bites-and-stings

“Treating bites and stings,” American Academy of Dermatology Association. Web. 14 February 2019.
https://www.aad.org/public/kids/skin/bugs/treating-bites-stings

“Identifying insect bites and stings,” American Academy of Pediatrics. Web. 14 February 2019.
https://www.healthychildren.org/English/health-issues/conditions/from-insects-animals/Pages/Identifying-Insect-Bites-and-Stings.aspx

“Insect bites and stings: First aid,” Mayo Clinic. Web. 14 February 2019.
https://www.mayoclinic.org/first-aid/first-aid-insect-bites/basics/art-20056593

“Bites and stings: Insects,” John Hopkins Medicine. Web. 14 February 2019.
https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/healthlibrary/conditions/pediatrics/bites_and_stings_insects_85,P01032

“Sepsis and cellulitis,” Sepsis Alliance. Web. 14 February 2019.
https://www.sepsis.org/sepsis-and/cellulitis/

“Patient education: What to do after a tick bite to prevent Lyme disease (Beyond the Basics),” UpToDate. Web. 14 February 2019.
https://www.uptodate.com/contents/what-to-do-after-a-tick-bite-to-prevent-lyme-disease-beyond-the-basics

“Take a bite out of mosquito stings,” American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology. Web. 14 February 2019.
https://www.aaaai.org/conditions-and-treatments/library/allergy-library/taking-a-bite-out-of-mosquitoes

“Bed bugs,” MedlinePlus. Web. 14 February 2019.
https://medlineplus.gov/bedbugs.html

“Reactions to bites and stings,” American Academy of Dermatology Association. Web. 14 February 2019.
https://www.aad.org/public/kids/skin/bugs/reactions-to-bites-stings

“Mosquito-borne diseases,” Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Web. 15 February 2019.
https://www.cdc.gov/niosh/topics/outdoor/mosquito-borne/default.html

“Insect-borne diseases,” American Academy of Family Physicians. Web. 15 February 2019.
https://familydoctor.org/condition/insect-borne-diseases/

Pictures, symptoms, treatment, and more

Insects often bite humans in an attempt to feed or in self-defense. Most insect bites are harmless and will disappear after a few days. However, in some instances, an insect bite may become infected.

Many insects will inject a person with formic acid when biting them. This saliva may contain several substances, some of which can cause a person’s body to respond adversely.

Various insects in the United States can bite. These include:

• bedbugs
• fleas
• flies, such as horseflies
• gnats
• midges
• mosquitoes
• ticks
• bees
• wasps

Typically, insect bites do not require medical attention. However, in some instances, an insect bite may become infected.

The skin acts as a barrier to the harmless bacteria on its surface. If the skin breaks, these harmless bacteria can get under the skin and cause an infection.

An insect bite can penetrate the skin, allowing bacteria to enter.

A common symptom of insect bites is a small, itchy lump. If a person scratches this lump, it may break the skin. This can allow bacteria from their hand to enter the bite, leading to an infection.

A person may have to see a doctor for treatment if they have an infected insect bite. However, most infected bites are easy to treat with a course of antibiotics.

Learn why mosquito bites itch.

An infected insect bite may cause one or more of these symptoms:

• a buildup of pus
• chills
• a feeling of warmth around the bite
• fever
• increasing pain
• a red or dark line extending from the bite
• discoloration and swelling appearing around the bite
• sores or abscesses on or around the bite
• swollen glands (lymph nodes)

Insect bites can cause several common infections.

Learn more about different types of infection here.

Impetigo

Impetigo is a common and highly contagious skin infection. It is most common in young children; however, adults can get it too.

The first sign of impetigo is a patch of red or purplish, itchy skin. This can then develop into sores that burst and ooze before drying up.

Impetigo is easy to treat using antibiotics. According to the American Academy of Dermatology Association (AAD), the infection can cause new sores or blisters to develop if left untreated. The infection can also go deeper beneath the skin, which can be severe.

Learn more about what skin infections look like here.

Cellulitis

Cellulitis is a relatively widespread bacterial infection that occurs in the deeper layers of the skin. A 2016 article indicated that around 14.5 million people develop cellulitis in the U.S. each year.

Cellulitis can be very painful, often involves skin discoloration, pain in one area, and often feels warm and tender to touch.

The infection can spread rapidly around the body and can lead to sepsis, which is severe. Cellulitis can start suddenly and can become life threatening without quick treatment.

If caught early, a doctor will usually prescribe antibiotics to treat cellulitis. However, if the infection is more severe, it may require intravenous (IV) antibiotics and other care.

Learn more about cellulitis from insect bites here.

Lymphangitis

Lymphangitis is an infection of the lymph vessels. It is a secondary infection, meaning other infections cause lymphangitis to occur. Infections caused by insect bites can cause lymphangitis.

Early signs of lymphangitis include red or dark streaks extending from the bite to areas where lymph glands are present. These include the areas around the neck, armpits, groin, and gut.

Other lymphangitis symptoms include feeling sick or weak, chills, a fever, a headache, low energy, and a loss of appetite.

Lymphangitis can be severe and may spread quickly. Anyone experiencing these symptoms must go to a doctor. A doctor will usually prescribe antibiotics to treat the issue. If IV antibiotics are required, the treatment may take place in the hospital or doctor’s office.

Learn more about the lymphatic system here.

Lyme disease

Lyme disease is the most common insect-borne disease in the U.S. Infected blacklegged ticks transfer this disease to humans through their bite.

Lyme disease symptoms include fever, a headache, fatigue, and a rash on the person’s skin. If left untreated, the infection can spread to the heart, joints, and nervous system.

In most cases, a doctor will treat Lyme disease with antibiotics.

Learn more about tick bites here.

The most common treatment for an infected insect bite is a course of antibiotics. Depending on the severity of the infection, a doctor may prescribe oral or IV antibiotics. Doctors will administer IV antibiotics in the hospital or doctor’s office.

A person must take all of the prescribed antibiotics. It is essential not to skip any doses or stop before finishing the course, even if the symptoms have already improved.

Placing a cold compress on the insect bite, taking oral pain relief medication, or using an anesthetic cream can help ease any discomfort.

Learn about how to deal with insect and spider bites here.

There are several things a person can do to prevent insect bites. These include:

• avoiding bothering insects
• avoiding heavily scented cosmetics and bright-colored clothing
• avoiding wooded and grassy areas
• taking care when eating outside as this may attract insects
• using insect repellant
• using structural barriers, such as window screens or netting when indoors
• wearing protective clothing if necessary

If an insect does bite occur, there are several things a person can do to prevent infection. These include:

• applying ice compresses to the bite
• cleaning the bite with soap and water
• elevating the area if it becomes swollen
• taking anti-inflammatory drugs
• updating tetanus status as required

Learn how to identify an infected wound here.

Some people can have an allergic reaction to an insect bite. If this happens, a person should seek medical help. The main sign of an allergic reaction is swelling of the skin around the bite that lasts longer than 24 hours.

Here are some other signs of an allergic reaction to an insect bite:

• dizziness
• difficulty breathing
• feeling of weakness
• itching or painful sensation at the area of the bite
• nausea
• raised skin rash
• severe itching
• stomach and bowel problems

It is worth noting that insect bites rarely cause allergic reactions. One study showed that just 2% of people react to insect bites and stings and display symptoms that affect more than only the surrounding area of skin.

An allergic reaction to an insect bite can be severe. When this occurs, a doctor may prescribe oral antihistamines or pain relievers.

Learn more about allergies here.

A person should see a doctor if they believe they have an infected insect bite. Early treatment of the infection can prevent further complications.

A person should seek emergency medical help if they are showing signs of an infection and also have one of the following symptoms:

• dizziness
• hives and itching across the body
• loss of consciousness
• nausea or vomiting
• swollen face, mouth, or throat
• tight chest or throat
• trouble breathing
• trouble swallowing

A person should also seek emergency medical help if a poisonous insect or bug has bitten them.

Learn about five poisonous insects here.

Insect bites are common and are often not a cause for concern. They will usually go away after a few days without the need for treatment.

A person should seek medical help from a doctor if their insect bite becomes infected. Treatment will typically involve a course of antibiotics. Early treatment can help prevent further complications and other infections.

If the infection is more severe, a person may require IV antibiotics or other care.

Insect Bite

Is this your child’s symptom?

• Bite from an insect (bug)
• Bees, mosquitoes, fire ants, ticks and spiders are not covered. See those care guides.

Symptoms of Insect Bites

• Insect bites usually cause a small red bump.
• Often, it looks like localized hives (one large one or several small ones).
• Sometimes, a small water blister occurs in the center of the bump. This is common in younger children.
• Itchy Insect Bites. Bites of mosquitoes, chiggers (harvest mites), fleas, and bedbugs usually cause itchy, red bumps.
• Painful Insect Bites. Bites of horseflies, deer flies, and gnats usually cause a painful, red bump. Fire ants, harvester ants, blister beetles, and centipedes also cause a painful, red bump. Within a few hours, fire ant bites can change to blisters or pimples.

Cause of Insect Bite Reaction

• The skin bumps are the body’s reaction to the insect’s saliva.
• While the bug is sucking blood, some of its secretions get mixed in.

Anaphylaxis With Insect Bites: Very Rare

• A severe life-threatening allergic reaction is called anaphylaxis.
• The main symptoms are difficulty breathing and swallowing starting within 2 hours of the sting. Onset usually is within 20 minutes.
• Anaphylaxis can occur with bee, yellow jacket, wasp, or fire ant stings. Anaphylactic reactions are very rare after other insect bites. Reason: other insects don’t have venom.

Problems Caused by Insect Bites

• Impetigo. A local bacterial infection. Gives sores, soft scabs and pus. Caused by scratching or picking at the bites. More common in itchy bites.
• Cellulitis. The bacterial infection spreads into the skin. Gives redness spreading out from the bite. The red area is painful to the touch.
• Lymphangitis. This is a bacterial infection that spreads up the lymph channels. Gives a red line that goes up the arm or leg. More serious because the infection can get into the bloodstream. (This is called sepsis.)

When to Call for Insect Bite

Call 911 Now

• Past life-threatening allergic reaction to same insect bite (not just hives) and bitten less than 2 hours ago
• Trouble breathing or wheezing
• Hoarse voice, cough, or tightness in the throat or chest
• Trouble swallowing, drooling or slurred speech
• Hard to wake up
• Acts or talks confused
• You think your child has a life-threatening emergency

Call Doctor or Seek Care Now

• Hives or swelling all over the body
• More than 20 fire ant stings in a child less than 1 year old
• Fever and bite looks infected (spreading redness)
• Your child looks or acts very sick
• You think your child needs to be seen, and the problem is urgent

Contact Doctor Within 24 Hours

• Severe pain and not better 2 hours after taking pain medicine
• New redness around the bite starts more than 24 hours after the bite
• More than 48 hours since the bite and redness gets larger
• Redness or red streak around the bite gets larger than 1 inch (2.5 cm)
• You think your child needs to be seen, but the problem is not urgent

Contact Doctor During Office Hours

• Scab that looks infected (drains pus or gets bigger) not better with antibiotic ointment
• You have other questions or concerns

Self Care at Home

• Normal insect bite
• Questions about insect repellents (such as DEET)

Seattle Children’s Urgent Care Locations

If your child’s illness or injury is life-threatening, call 911.

Care Advice for Insect Bites

Treatment for Insect Bites

1. What You Should Know About Insect Bites:
   • Most insect bites cause a red bump. Some are larger (like a hive). Some have a small water blister in the center. These are normal reactions to an insect bite.
   • A large hive at the bite does not mean your child has an allergy.
   • The redness does not mean the bite is infected.
   • Here is some care advice that should help.
2. Itchy Insect Bite Treatment:
   • Steroid Cream. To reduce the itching, use 1% hydrocortisone cream (such as Cortaid). No prescription is needed. Put it on 3 times a day until the itch is gone. If you don’t have, use a baking soda paste until you can get some.
   • If neither is available, use ice in a wet washcloth for 20 minutes.
   • Also, you can put firm, sharp, direct, steady pressure on the bite. Do this for 10 seconds to reduce the itch. A fingernail, pen cap, or other object can be used.
   • Allergy Medicine. If the bite is still itchy, try an allergy medicine (such as Benadryl). No prescription is needed. Sometimes it helps, especially in allergic children.
3. Painful Insect Bite Treatment:
   • Soak a cotton ball in a baking soda solution. Rub the bite with it for 15 to 20 minutes. Do this once. This will usually reduce the pain.
   • You can also use an ice cube in a wet washcloth for 20 minutes.
   • To help with the pain, give an acetaminophen product (such as Tylenol). Another choice is an ibuprofen product (such as Advil). Use as needed.
   • For painful bites, allergy medicines don’t help.
4. Antibiotic Ointment for Infected Bite:
   • If the insect bite has a scab on it and the scab looks infected, use an antibiotic ointment. An example is Polysporin. No prescription is needed. Use 3 times per day. (Note: Usually impetigo is caused by scratching with dirty fingers).
   • Cover the scab with a bandage (such as Band-Aid). This will help prevent scratching and spread.
   • Wash the sore and use the antibiotic ointment 3 times per day. Cover it with a clean bandage each time. Do this until healed.
   • Caution: For spreading infections (redness or red streaks), your child needs to be seen.
5. What to Expect:
   • Most insect bites are itchy for several days.
   • Any pinkness or redness usually lasts 3 days.
   • The swelling may last 7 days.
   • Insect bites of the upper face can cause severe swelling around the eye. This is harmless.
   • The swelling is usually worse in the morning after lying down all night. It will improve after standing for a few hours.
6. Call Your Doctor If:
   • Severe pain lasts more than 2 hours after pain medicine
   • Infected scab not better after 48 hours of antibiotic ointment
   • Bite looks infected (spreading redness gets bigger after 48 hours)
   • You think your child needs to be seen
   • Your child becomes worse

Prevention of Insect Bites

1. Prevention Tips:
   • Wear long pants, a long-sleeved shirt and a hat.
   • Avoid being outside when the bugs are most active. Many insects that cause itchy bites are most active at sunrise or sunset. Examples are chiggers, no-see-ums, and mosquitoes.
   • Insect repellents that contain DEET are helpful in preventing many insect bites. Read the label carefully.
2. DEET Products: Use on the Skin.
   • DEET is a very effective bug repellent. It also repels ticks and other insects.
   • The AAP approves DEET use over 2 months of age. Use 30% DEET or less. Use 30% DEET if you need 6 hours of protection. Use 10% DEET if you only need protection for 2 hours. (AAP 2003).
   • Don’t put DEET on the hands if your child sucks on their thumb or fingers. (Reason: prevent swallowing DEET.)
   • Warn older children who apply their own DEET to use less. A total of 3 or 4 drops can protect the whole body.
   • Put it on exposed areas of skin. Do not use near the eyes or mouth. Do not use on skin that is covered by clothing. Don’t put DEET on sunburns or rashes. Reason: DEET can be easily absorbed in these areas.
   • Wash it off with soap and water when your child comes indoors.
   • Caution: DEET can damage clothing made of man-made fibers. It can also damage plastics (such as eye glasses) and leather. DEET can be used on cotton clothing.
3. Permethrin Products: Use on Clothing.
   • Products that contain permethrin (such as Duranon) work well to repel insects and ticks.
   • Unlike DEET, these products are put on clothing instead of skin.
   • Put it on shirt cuffs, pant cuffs, shoes and hats.
   • You can also use it on other outdoor items (mosquito screens, sleeping bags).
   • Do not put permethrin on the skin. Reason: Sweat changes it so it does not work.
4. Picaridin Products:
   • Picaridin is a repellent that is equal to 10% DEET.
   • It can safely be put on skin or clothing.

And remember, contact your doctor if your child develops any of the ‘Call Your Doctor’ symptoms.

Disclaimer: this health information is for educational purposes only. You, the reader, assume full responsibility for how you choose to use it.

Last Reviewed: 04/15/2021

Last Revised: 03/11/2021

Copyright 2000-2021. Schmitt Pediatric Guidelines LLC.

List of Insect Bites Medications (12 Compared)

1. Treatments
2. Dermatological Disorders
3. Insect Bites

About Insect Bites

An insect bite occurs when a non-venomous insect pierces the skin to feed on blood. These bites can cause an intense, irritating itch and may progress to a raised wheal or even blister.

Drugs used to treat Insect Bites

The following list of medications are in some way related to, or used in the treatment of this condition.

Learn more about Insect Bites

Drugs.com Health Center

Legend

Further information

Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.

Medical Disclaimer

90,000 Summer Poison. What to do if you are allergic to insect bites? | HEALTH

In the summer we all go out into nature, work in the country. And here unpleasant surprises can lie in wait for us. Blood-sucking and poisonous insects can not only ruin the rest, but also cause serious health problems. Allergist-immunologist, associate professor of the Department of Immunology, P.G. Academician E.A. Wagner Dmitry Shilov told the AiF-Prikamye correspondent how to protect oneself from bites, as well as help oneself and one’s loved ones in time.

Who is at risk?

You can avoid encountering insects if you don’t go outside at all. More and more people are showing an unhealthy reaction to the bites of bloodsucking. The reasons are a hereditary factor and an unfavorable environmental situation. Allergy sufferers are certainly at risk. It must be understood that if a person has an allergy, then the body can begin to react negatively to anything and anytime. The trigger can be climate change, pregnancy and other factors.

What are the most dangerous insects?

The most severe consequences occur after the bites of hymenoptera insects, which inject poison. These are wasps, bees, bumblebees. Wasps often nest in the ground. That is why when you are in the woods, try not to go barefoot. They can also nest in bushes. Wasps, as well as bees, can easily be bumped into at the summer cottage. To avoid meeting them, always inspect the premises: there are no bee hives and wasp nests there.If you find them, it is advisable to process the nest and then remove it. There are also a lot of wasps and bees in the markets, as there are a lot of vegetables and fruits.

How to avoid wasp and bee stings?

If an insect flies next to you, first of all, do not wave your arms or make sudden movements. It will intuitively perceive such a reaction as a threat and will begin to attack. It is necessary to send such guests out carefully or just wait until they lose interest in you.

It is worth remembering that insects love sweets: sweets, sweet water, fruits.Remember this when dining in nature. They are also attracted by floral scents. So using a perfume with such a scent can play a cruel joke on you. Sunscreen lotion can also attract insects if it contains wax. So it is better to read the composition when buying a product. Also bees and wasps are attracted by bright clothes.

What to do if bitten?

The reaction to the sting of Hymenoptera – bees, wasps and others – can be very severe. If you already have allergies, then you should always have an individual first aid kit with you.It should contain: adrenaline (0.1%), an injectable antihistamine (Suprastin, Tavegil) and corticosteroid preparations also in an injectable form (for example, Prednisolone). Also – needles, tourniquets. You must carry a passport of a patient with an allergic disease with you. You can get it from an allergist-immunologist.

If you have been stung by a wasp or a bee and you know that you have an allergy, then you need to inject adrenaline subcutaneously, apply a tourniquet 15-20 centimeters above the bite site. It is necessary to prick the bite with small doses of the drug.Therefore, it is better to use an insulin syringe. Then intramuscularly, in the front of the thigh, inject corticosteroid and antihistamines.

If an allergic reaction occurs for the first time, then you need to put cold on the site of the bite, if possible, keep the part of the body where the insect has bitten at rest. It is also worth using antihistamine ointments – for example, “Fenistil”, and also take tablets of cetrizin (“Cetrin”) or “Loratadin”.

Which reaction of the body is dangerous?

The reaction can be local: edema, redness with a diameter of at least 10 centimeters, which last for at least 24 hours.And also severe itching. It is worth worrying when there is a rash all over the body, itching, malaise, anxiety. If the head begins to spin, pains in the heart and abdomen occur, and diarrhea begins.

It is especially dangerous if the mouth and throat are swollen. A person cannot swallow, coughs, fear arises. These are signs of a severe reaction that can cause suffocation and death. Taking medications on time can reduce the risk, however, in this case, you should consult a doctor as soon as possible.

Where is the mosquito allergen?

Mosquitoes accompany us at the dacha, on a hike, in nature, when we are going with friends to eat barbecue. Mosquitoes keep up with people at night. It is clear that they need to survive, but we also need to defend ourselves. The reaction to bites can be very painful.

Allergen after the bites of gnats – midges, mosquitoes and other blood-sucking insects – enters the body with their saliva. A common reaction is redness and itching at the site of the bite. More often than not, this is the end of it.However, there are also people whose bite site swells up to several centimeters. Less than 1% of the population has an even more serious reaction: hives, a rash all over the body, severe itching, and may even rise in temperature. In this case, our expert advises to immediately consult a doctor.

What to do if the bite site is severely swollen and itchy?

First of all, it is worth applying a local antihistamine, for example, “Fenistil” and similar drugs.If no changes have occurred, then you can try to apply topical glucocorticosteroid drugs, that is, hormonal ointments. For example, “Elokom”. Don’t know who bit you, and the place hurts and itches? Elokom-S can help with salicylic acid or Akriderm-GK (contains antibacterial substances). However, strong drugs are usually not needed.

Are repellents effective?

Yes. Before going out into nature, it is worth treating your skin and clothes with special repellents, which are sold in every store.However, you should always read the instructions carefully. Some of them cannot be applied to the skin.

There are special plates for the house, there is their analogue for use in field conditions. These drugs are not harmful to humans. There are also special bracelets on sale, although the benefits of them have not been proven in any way. They can only be effective if they contain a repellent.

Among the popular ways there is one – you can sprinkle on a mosquito from an ordinary bottle of varnish.The varnish will glue the wings of the insect.

So, in order to protect yourself from wasps, bees and mosquito bites, you need to remember that:

1. Bite allergies can occur suddenly, often in adulthood.
2. Read the ingredients before using repellents. Some of them cannot be applied to the skin.
3. Anti-mosquito bracelets have not been proven to be effective.
4. Bees, wasps, bumblebees love sweet and floral scents. They are attracted by bright, colorful clothes.
5. The reaction to wasps and bees should be calm. Do not wave your hands, this can make them angry.
6. It is forbidden to walk barefoot on the grass, as there may be wasps nests in the ground.
7. The medicine cabinet should always contain topical ointments and gels, as well as antihistamine tablets.
8. If you are already allergic to bee and wasp stings, take a special first-aid kit and a passport of an allergic patient with you.
9. If a severe allergic reaction occurs, seek medical attention.

See also:

Caution – insect bites

08/20/2020

Caution – Insect Bites

With the onset of summer, we and our children are in for such troubles as insect bites. They can cause not only reddening of the skin at the site of the bite, unpleasant itching, rashes, but also other, more pronounced allergic reactions. We will talk about how to avoid them in this article.

What is an allergy?

Allergic diseases are one of the most common chronic diseases in the world. Everyone knows about allergies, even those people who have never experienced allergic reactions from personal experience.

An allergic reaction occurs when a person’s immune system becomes hypersensitive to certain substances, such as food, pollen, pet hair, mold, certain medications, and more.Anything can be an allergen as long as the immune system has some type of adverse reaction to it. The main function of our immune system is to maintain health and fight harmful pathogens. As a rule, substances can be completely harmless to other people, while the immune system of an allergic person recognizes them as hostile and begins to fight.

More and more people are showing an unhealthy reaction to insect bites. The reasons are hereditary factors, unfavorable environmental conditions, disorders of the immune system.An allergy to insects can lead to unpleasant consequences, including anaphylactic shock. The severity of the reaction depends on the individual intolerance of the patient and the insect itself. As a rule, the most serious consequences arise from a sting of wasps, bees and hornets – swelling, redness, burning, fever, itching.

Insect Bite Allergy Symptoms:
– Pain
– redness
– edema
– urticaria
– itching
– less commonly, anaphylaxis, a potentially life-threatening reaction that can disrupt breathing and cause shock.

First aid for a wasp sting:

1) having found a sting at the site of the bite, carefully remove it from the wound (with tweezers or a needle)

2) apply a gauze cloth or cotton swab moistened with hydrogen peroxide solution, saline to the bite site

3) apply a heating pad with cold water to the bite site

4) on the skin around the bite and the bite itself, apply an anti-allergic agent, ointment (Fenistil gel, Psilo-balm).

5) if you notice worsening breathing, hoarseness or blistering of the skin, call an ambulance right away.

To protect yourself from insect bites, it is important to observe the following rules:

– do not wear brightly colored clothes;

– do not use perfumes and cosmetics if you go to nature, because these smells attract bees and wasps;

– allergy to bites can occur suddenly, often – in adulthood;

– before using repellents, read the composition.Some of them cannot be applied to the skin.

What antihistamines are there

Antihistamines are divided into several groups.

First generation: Diphenhydramine, Suprastin, Diazolin, Tavegil

Pros:

1. Provide a quick and strong healing effect

2. There are injection forms, so they are used for acute allergic reactions.

Minuses:

1. They act for a short time

2. Reduce the reaction rate, therefore, transport drivers are contraindicated.

The second generation of antihistamines includes: Loratadin, Claritin, Lomilan, Cetirizin, Zirtek, Zodak, Kestin, Fenistil.

Pros:

1. They do not have a sedative effect

2. Valid for a long time

3.Side effects when taking them are much less common.

4. They do not cause addiction, therefore they can be used for a long time.

The third generation of antihistamines: Desloratadine (Erius, Lordestin, Desal, etc.), Levocetirizine (Ksizal, Suprastinex, Allerway, Zodak-express, etc.), Fexofenadine (Allegra, Feksadin, Fexofast, etc.).

Pros:

1. Surpass their predecessors in their efficiency

2.Fast and long-lasting

3. They do not have a sedative effect

4. Do not reduce the reaction rate

5. Do not enhance the effect of alcohol

6. They are not addictive, so they can be used for a long time

7. Safe.

If you notice an allergic reaction in yourself, the first thing, of course, is to see a doctor. The allergist will find out what exactly is the causative agent of the allergy and will prescribe treatment.

There are contraindications, it is necessary to consult a specialist before use.

90,000 what to save with – pharmacy or folk remedies?

“MK-Estonia” found out with the help of a pharmacist how modern remedies will help with the bites of 12 different creatures and what their folk counterparts are.

1. Tick

Means: tweezers (2 euros), test for borreliosis (31.25 euros).

The forest tick is the most dangerous for humans, as it is a carrier of dangerous diseases.The oral apparatus of the parasite is designed in such a way that it makes it possible to deeply and firmly adhere to the skin. At the same time, a person will not experience pain and may find a tick on his body even after a few days. It may turn out that the tick bit you and fell off. Then, at the site of the bite, there will be a red spot with a circle of several centimeters, and in the center there will be a black or red dot. In this case, you should immediately consult a doctor.

“If you have been bitten by a tick, you can pull it out yourself, we sell special tweezers – they cost about 2 euros.Removing the tick must be done with care, without squeezing its body with your hands. And then you should observe the spot – O-shaped redness around the bite site. Slight redness and thickening at the site of the bite in the first three days is normal and does not mean that a person develops a disease. Burning and itching may also appear at the site of the bite, ”says Südameapteek pharmacist Mariana Janiashvili.

Craftsmen, when there is no way to get to the hospital, manage to remove the tick at home using a thread: they put a loop on the base of the tick’s body and gently pull it out, loosening it from side to side.In any case, it is important to spray this place with an antiseptic before and after.

If the spot after a tick bite does not disappear, but, on the contrary, only increases in size, there is a high fever, nausea, muscle pain or severe headaches, then you should immediately contact your family doctor. Perhaps it is borreliosis or encephalitis.

You can also buy a borreliosis test at the pharmacy, which can be done 14–28 days after the tick bite. The test allows you to confirm the presence or absence of antibodies in the body that indicate tick-borne borreliosis.

And, of course, those who often go to the forest must be vaccinated. A complete tick-borne encephalitis vaccination includes three vaccinations.

2. Mosquito

Means: Zyrtec (4.66 euros), SOS pencil (7.34 euros), Hydrocortisone (5.77 euros).

“If the site of the bite is inflamed and swollen, then you can take an allergy remedy – they are sold without a prescription,” advises the pharmacist. – And the bite site should be lubricated with special cooling agents so that it does not itch and heals faster.If the area is inflamed and swollen, you can use Hydrocortisone ointment. ”

From folk remedies for bites, it is advised to knead the leaves of black elderberry or plantain and wipe the bite with them. The leaves will help to quickly relieve swelling and disinfect the bite site.

Or ammonia: treat the skin with a cotton swab dipped in diluted ammonia (a tablespoon of alcohol for 3 tablespoons of water) or in a solution of baking soda (a teaspoon of baking soda in a glass of water) to relieve redness from a mosquito bite and itching.

Also, to relieve itching, people use salt or soda solutions or smear with laundry soap or garlic.

3. Wasps and bees

Means: Hydrocortisone (5.77 euros), Cetirizin Actavis (3.99 euros), Braunovidon (4.60 euros).

“When a wasp stings, you need to disinfect the bite site, take allergy pills and anoint with Hydrocortisone. If the site of the bite is severely swollen and inflamed, then you can take 1.5–2 tablets for allergies. In case of a strong reaction, the ointment can be smeared twice a day for a week, the pharmacist emphasizes.- And in any case, do not comb the bite site! Germs and bacteria can get in there and it becomes inflamed. If this happens, then you can smear with Braunovidon, which draws out pus and heals. It is sold over the counter without a prescription. ”

Folk remedies for a wasp sting: garlic gruel on the wound, cabbage and burdock leaves, parsley and potato juice, basil broth, mint gruel.

When stung by a bee, soak a clean cloth or gauze with ammonia or ethyl alcohol, vinegar, a solution of soda or potassium permanganate.Apply to the wound. Keep it as long as possible. This minimizes pain, disinfects and slows down the development of puffiness. You can wash the damaged area of ​​the body with soap (72% household is better) and apply ice.

4. Hornet

Remedies: Kestine (4.59 euros)

The insect pierces the skin like a bee, but does not leave a sting in the wound. The bite site swells, turns red, and sharp pain appears. Among the symptoms of a hornet bite: rapid heart rate, nausea, vomiting, cold limbs, bluish tinge to the lips, ears and neck.Loss of consciousness is not excluded. Young children and adults with weakened immune systems are very painful to tolerate a hornet bite. If these symptoms appear, you should immediately consult a doctor.

“The danger of a bee or hornet sting is the possibility of developing a strong allergic reaction. First aid: remove the sting from the wound, rinse the bite site under a stream of cold running water, take an antihistamine, the specialist advises. “I recommend for allergy sufferers to carry an automatic EpiPen syringe with adrenaline; after a bite, the medicine should be injected into the muscles of the thigh or shoulder.”

Folk remedies: if you have been bitten in nature, and there are no special preparations, then you need to disinfect and cool the bite site, try to remove the remains of the sting from there if the hornet was killed during the attack, but do not press on the wound. And put on the bite the juice or pulp of aloe, juice or plantain leaf, chopped parsley. The herbs should be washed, cover the compress with a cloth and change every 20 minutes.

5. Flea

Remedies: Zyrtec (4.66 euros)

The bites of these insects are most often observed on the legs.These are small red dots, in the center there are two punctures. If you comb them, they heal for a long time, and dark spots remain at the site of the bites for a long time.

“Flea bites are very itchy and painful. It is advisable to immediately treat the bite site with a disinfectant. It is necessary to take a remedy for allergies, advises Mariana Dzhaniashvili. “Apply a thin layer of insect bite remedy to the affected area and rub it gently.”

Folk remedies: rinse with warm soapy water (not hot!), Rinse, wipe dry, apply an antiseptic (brilliant green, iodine, alcohol).To remove edema, wipe the wound with vinegar diluted with water in a 1: 1 ratio or citric acid solution.

6. Ant

Means: Helpic Gel (7.31 euros), Hydrocortisone (5.77 euros).

An ant bite is similar in pain to a mosquito bite. When biting, the ant injects formic acid into the wound, which causes a burning sensation. At the site of localization of the bite, the following symptoms are observed: slight redness in the form of a speck, swelling of the skin, severe itching, and sometimes inflammation of the skin.

“We don’t have any poisonous ants, but if you are bitten badly, you should take an allergy remedy and anoint the bite with Hydrocortisone ointment. But it can only be smeared with it 2 times a day, and if it also itches in between, you can also apply cooling gels or a special balm pencil after bites. ”

Folk remedies: soda gruel, ammonia, toothpaste, milk lotion, cut onion at the site of the bite.

7. Midges

Funds: Yosqiero (5.98 euros).

“Such midges are found near the sea, but they are usually invisible to the eye, but if they bite, the eyelid swells greatly. In such situations, you can take pills for allergies. If it doesn’t go away, you need to see a doctor. ”

Folk remedies: aloe juice, gruel from parsley or plantain leaves, a piece of raw potato on the eyelid.

8. Horsefly

Means: Zyrtec (4.66 euros), Hydrocortisone (5.77 euros).

“Symptoms of a horsefly bite can be as follows: pain, burning, itching, swelling, redness, oozing blood from the wound.Treat damaged areas with antiseptics. You can take an allergy pill and apply Hydrocortisone ointment. If after the bite the temperature starts to rise against the background of severe swelling, then it is better to consult a doctor, ”the pharmacist advises.

Folk remedies: dressing with a solution of soda or boric acid, gruel from plantain leaves, dandelion juice, onion juice, fresh wormwood juice, mint, aloe juice, millennial, black nightshade, parsley, lemon juice, sour cream, potato gruel, propolis tincture or calendula, garlic gruel on the wound.

9. Bedbug

Means: Zyrtec (4.66 euros).

Massive bites, densely located next to each other and grouped. Bed bugs bite, as it were, in one line. The number of bites of one bug is from 3 to 5 punctures of the skin with redness at intervals of 2-4 centimeters.

“If symptoms such as itching or burning need to be eliminated, you can use ice, an anti-itch ointment or any other cooling agent, take an allergy remedy containing antihistamines,” the pharmacist advises.

Folk remedies: mint leaves, softened dandelion stalk on the wound, grease the place with garlic juice, apply plantain or bird cherry leaves, cut onion, aloe juice.

10. Fly

Means: Hydrocortisone (5.77 euros), Claritine (4.88 euros).

“If the bite site is very itchy, painful and swollen, anoint it with Hydrocortisone and take an allergy remedy containing antihistamines,” advises Mariana Dzhaniashvili.

11.Spider

Remedies: Hydrocortisone (5.77 euros), Carmolis (12.56 euros), Tea Tree Oil (4.24 euros).

“Poisonous spiders are not found in our latitudes. If you are bitten by a spider, first treat the bite with an antiseptic. If the bite is severely swollen, take an antihistamine and apply Hydrocortisone. If it continues to itch throughout the day (the ointment can only be used twice a day), then you can use any other cooling agent – for example, an aqueous-alcoholic solution of essential oils obtained from 10 Carmolis medicinal plants, or tea tree oil on a cotton swab.If you have more severe symptoms or suspect that the spider was venomous, see your doctor as soon as possible. ”

12. Lice

“There are special preparations for lice, and you must first remove the lice, and then fight the residual itching. If someone from the family has lice, but others do not, then they should also use special sprays and shampoos so that they do not start. To achieve maximum effectiveness, reapply the head lice shampoo after 7-10 days, the pharmacist advises.- Wash clothes, towels, bed linen for all family members. To cope with parasites, it is necessary to wash clothes at a temperature not lower than 55 ° C. ”

Folk remedies: wipe the bites with vodka or alcohol diluted with water 1: 1.

INSECT BITES: TREATMENT AND PROTECTION | News

Summer cottage and garden season, summer holidays, vacation time – all this is Summer, a great time of the year, whoever says whatever, there are, of course, individual negative moments that everyone has their own, but a common and unpleasant minus is worth noting a lot of various biting insects.I must say that in recent years they have been biting very viciously, even through thin clothing and plus everything with consequences. The consequences are expressed in prolonged itching, sores and huge blisters.

Varieties of biting insects and types of their bites

Of course, we all treat bites differently, someone calmly and without irritation, someone, on the contrary, cannot stand these buzzing and stinging ones. It all depends on the body’s perception of their bites. If the bite does not bother a person, then the person himself will calmly treat insects.If the bite causes physical problems, itches for a long time, swells, sometimes they turn from scratching into painful wounds, then such a person will experience extreme dislike of insects and irritability. When an insect bites, mechanical damage to the skin occurs, a wound is formed. The insect bites in two cases – only when they are hungry or in defense, but in both cases they inject formic acid into the wound, which serves as an irritant. If we talk about our latitudes, then it is worth listing the main blood-sucking and biting ones: mosquito, gnat, tick, fly, fleas, horsefly and bed bugs.It is worth mentioning spiders, although they are not insects, nevertheless, we have such species that can actually bite.

Biting insects should not be confused with stinging insects. there are a lot of the latter problems, in this case, the consequence can be not only itching, like from a mosquito or gnat, but also severe allergies, in some cases it is even life-threatening due to anaphylactic shock. These insects include hornets, wasps, red ants and bees and should be taken seriously.

The fact that biting insects cause skin problems at the sites of bites is due to the fact that there is a substance in their saliva that can cause even severe inflammation under the skin, which is often seen when a purulent wound appears at the sites of midge bites.It all depends on the reaction of the body and the ability to resist the poison, so someone may have a slightly swollen bite and hardly itch, but for someone it will come back to haunt with a huge itchy blister or a rash on the skin in the form of hives. When a person strongly scratches the wound, then an infection gets there and a local inflammatory process begins.

Our lands do not have such insects that can infect us with malaria, fever or sleeping sickness, but ticks should not be disregarded, they can be a deadly threat here.

The reaction of the body to an insect bite

In the usual case, the body reacts to a bite with swelling and slight itching, and if you look closely, you will see a red dot with a bite hole. It so happens that the bite swells up strongly, a transparent liquid forms inside under the blister, such a blister lasts for a long time, sometimes it also grows. If a person has normal immunity, then he will defeat even the manifestation of allergic reactions, and the blister itself will disappear in a couple of days. However, there are times when such bites go too far and it is necessary to influence them, such cases include:

• severe skin rash or bloating;
• very severe itching;
• dizziness;
• nausea;
• chest pain;
• severe lethargy;
• not naturally strong heartbeat;
• convulsions;
• it becomes difficult to breathe,
• whistle when breathing;
• fainting;
• swelling on the tongue and lips.

In this case, do not pull, seek medical attention.

In addition, the most common wound can become a problem, when it was severely scratched and infected, in such cases there may be symptoms:

• weakness in the body similar to influenza disease;
• lymph nodes may become inflamed;
• the temperature rises;
• the wound festers around and inside the bite;
• Severe redness of the bite or unusually large redness.

If a person is healthy, and his immunity is strong and active enough, then protection is developed against insect bites, and in case of bites there is no violent reaction, and the poison is neutralized by the body without outside help.

Post-bite relief options

Depending on your body, it is often enough to rinse with cold water, and also lubricate the bites themselves with cream, vinegar also helps well against irritation and itching, in addition, it relieves redness and swelling.For this we recommend “Fenistil gel”, this tube is easy to take with you to nature or even just put in a bag.

If you know that your body is very prone to allergies, then it is worth having antihistamines with you. You can, of course, seal the wound with a plaster, but with a lot of bites, this is problematic. If you use a store-bought ointment, then first read the instructions. There is such a series of ointments “Rescuer”, it is effective for strong bites, there is also a useful and high-quality balm “Psilo-balm”.

Stinging insects and their bites

Insects such as hornets, bumblebees, wasps and bees, as a rule, do not attack just like that (except when swarming), but you can accidentally stumble upon their hive in the wild, and starting to brush them off, attract them even more.

With a small number of bites, allergy sufferers may have a problem, in this case, you should immediately use anti-allergy drugs, for example, Suprastin, Tavegil or Diazolin. If you reach the bite site, then you need to remove the sting, most often it remains sticking out in the skin.If you are in nature, then remove with your hands, but at home it is better to do this with tweezers, after that you need to disinfect with available means and apply cold, so pain and swelling are relieved.

In cases where the bite is manifested in a very strong form, and standard remedies do not help you, do not hesitate to consult a doctor to prevent swelling of the throat and respiratory tract, which often occurs in severe cases. Therefore, if you go to the country, and even more so on vacation in the wild, then you need to grab not only mosquito cream, but also antihistamines, and a good disinfectant.In addition, there are a number of rules to help you spend your holiday safely.

Methods of prevention against insects and bites

Let’s start with the house where the insects attack us. The most optimal method of protection is mosquito nets on the windows. When you go to nature, whether it’s a park or a forest, you need to treat your body and clothes with a special product, but read the instructions first, sometimes the products are harmful to the skin. Forest walks are best done in clothes that cover the body completely, and you must also cover your head.

Mosquitoes and midges love moisture and stagnant water, wherever there is such an environment, they can develop rapidly. Therefore, even your pets’ water needs to be changed more often. It is especially important to close the trash can tightly. It is well established that perfume, white and bright clothes attract insects, all insects love sweets such as sweet juices and soda. In the evening, it’s not a secret for anyone that all insects fly into the light and try to crawl through any openings in the house, so take care of protecting your entrances.Fumigators and a variety of air sprays provide good protection from especially nosy mosquitoes during sleep.

Treatment of bites with alternative methods

Dandelion leaves help relieve swelling, reduce itching from bites, it just needs to be rubbed or torn and put on the wound. Dill, plantain or parsley help in the same way, as an anti-inflammatory agent you need to use mint and onions by squeezing juice from them. Garlic juice is a real cure-all, cut it in half and place it on the bite.

When stinging bites: bees, bumblebees or wasps, after medications, it will not be superfluous to make a decoction of elderberry root and foliage and take a bath. Simply steam the leaves for 15 minutes and then add this infusion to your bath.

You can drop water into soda and make a kind of porridge that needs to be applied to the bite site, this is an effective method. Pounded onions and potatoes will quickly and efficiently remove swelling and itching.

Fresh lemon juice or olive oil prevents the blister from growing, moreover, this smell drives away other insects.

But, as you know, it is better not to allow the problem than to solve it later, so pay attention to prevention and use protective equipment.

08/26/2019 What to do with insect bites

Summer is a great time for outdoor recreation. But a pleasant pastime can be overshadowed by the bites of various insects. Anaphylactic shock and Quincke’s edema can develop as a result of stings from bees, wasps, bumblebee hornets and tarantulas.

So what kind of first aid should be provided to the victim? Regardless of what kind of insect bite you received, it is recommended to attach a cotton swab moistened with calendula tincture to the wound, which will relieve inflammation.In addition, if you are going to nature, then take with you a gel or ointment with an antiseptic, anti-inflammatory and wound healing effect. For example, fenistil-gel, cicaderm homeopathic ointment. If after a bite you have shortness of breath, headache, nausea and vomiting, then you need to urgently seek medical help!

What to do if bitten by a bee, wasp, hornet, ant.

With the bite of these insects, a poison related to strong allergens enters the human body.The skin immediately turns red, pain and swelling appear. Immediately after the bite, you must carefully pull out the sting if it remains in the wound. Then, for the purpose of disinfection, apply a cotton swab moistened with calendula tincture, hydrogen peroxide or an alcohol-containing liquid. To relieve swelling, apply ice to the bite site. You can use a piece of raw, halved potato, tomato. It is best to take an antihistamine to prevent an allergic reaction.

If bitten by a spider

Wash the bite site with soap and water.If a spider has bitten on an arm or leg, apply a tight bandage above the bite to prevent or slow the spread of the venom throughout the body. Apply a cold compress to the bite site. Drinking plenty of fluids is recommended to remove the poison in the urine. It is necessary to urgently seek medical help if a child has been bitten by a spider or the victim’s condition deteriorates sharply. In some cases, it is necessary to administer an antidote.

What to do in case of bites of fleas, lice, scabies mites

The lesions received from bites of fleas, lice and scabies mites are similar, so their diagnosis is difficult.The bites look like red dots surrounded by blemishes and swelling. Severe itching appears. Bite sites should be thoroughly washed with soap and water. With significant discomfort, topical application of steroids in the form of ointments or aerosols is indicated.

First aid for tick bite

Ticks are blood-sucking insects, they carry many infections, among which the most dangerous are hemorrhagic fevers, encephalitis and borreliosis. Severe infectious diseases transmitted by ticks appear some time after the bite, the time can vary significantly – from several days to several weeks.The first thing to do with an insect bite is to remove the tick. Try not to crush it, as this increases the risk of infection. To remove a tick, you can use medical tweezers, a loop made yourself from thread. Try to grab the insect closer to the head, remove it slowly, pull it perpendicular to the skin, while making swinging or slightly rotating movements. The removed tick must be placed in a small glass container with water and tightly closed with a lid.After the insect has been completely removed, the wound is washed with soap and water, then treated with an antiseptic. If the proboscis of the tick remains in the skin, it should not be pulled out, after a while – usually it takes several days – it will come out on its own. At the first sign of an allergic reaction, an antihistamine must be given to the victim as a first aid measure.

The extracted insect must be taken to the laboratory for analysis and consult an infectious disease doctor at the place of residence.

First aid for a poisonous snake bite

It is necessary to lay the bitten person in a horizontal position. If the snake is fixed on the skin at the site of the bite, then it must be removed and destroyed. But do not throw it away, as the reptile may be needed for examination by a specialist. The affected part should be freed from clothing and jewelry, as they can put pressure on the bite site and provoke increased edema. If there is no burning sensation, swelling and pain at the site of the bite, then most likely the snake is not poisonous.But urgently contact a specialist to find out if the snake was poisonous. In case of poisoning with snake venom, it is advisable to introduce an antidote on the first day after the bite.

“Assisting allergic children with insect bites”

1. Allergy to insect venom (from insect bites such as wasps, bees, hornets and ants)

In order to protect children from the troubles associated with Hymenoptera bites, the simplest precautions should be remembered and put into practice.If a trouble still occurs, and the child is stung, then you need to immediately provide him with first aid:

· Remove the sting (bee) from the sting site. Do not squeeze the sting because poison from the glands can additionally penetrate the wound. Better to use tweezers;

· Put something cold on the site of the bite;

· Exclude the possibility of overheating and physical activity;

To reduce itching, you can give your child antihistamines (loratadine, cetirizine, erius, etc.)etc.). To reduce edema, it makes sense to use various ointments and creams: arnica ointment, fenistil, etc.;

In severe cases, especially if the insect got into the mouth and stung there, it is necessary to urgently contact a doctor.

2. Allergy to bites (saliva) of insects (mosquitoes, midges, biting midges)

In children with a predisposition to allergies, bites can cause an allergic reaction. Therefore, caregivers first of all need to follow some precautions.

Windows and doors should be covered with fine mesh so that mosquitoes do not enter the premises of the preschool educational institution. You can use repellents – substances that repel insects. There are currently a large selection of chemical repellents in stores. Natural repellents are produced by leaves of tomatoes, lavender, cloves, anise, cedar, eucalyptus, etc. The netting used to cover the crib and windows should be impregnated with the repellent.

If a lot of mosquitoes have already flown into the room, you should use insecticides – substances that kill these insects.The most widespread at present are fumigants – substances with which mosquitoes are fumigated (spirals, candles, liquids, plates).

Ultrasonic scarers can be used.

3. First aid to the bitten one.

In practice, it is not possible to completely protect children from mosquito bites. Therefore, you need to be able to provide first aid to a bitten child:

· Put something cold on the site of the bite;

· Relieve itching and swelling from the bite with the help of alcohol-containing tinctures that may be at hand: boric alcohol, calendula tincture, even corvalol or valocordin;

Lubricate the bite site with arnica ointment, fenistil, etc.etc .;

· Give the child an antihistamine tablet: suprastin, claritin, erius, etc.;

With the development of an allergic reaction, accompanied by increasing edema, nausea and even difficulty in breathing, it is necessary to urgently consult a doctor.

A wise saying says: “Forewarned is forearmed!” Thus, if the employees and, first of all, the educators of the preschool educational institution are “armed” with elementary knowledge from the life of insects and know how to behave in various critical situations, their pupils are not in danger.

Precautions

first aid, treatment and methods of protection – “Nizhnevartovsk Regional Hospital No. 2”

Any stay in nature, be it a hike, a picnic with barbecue, fishing or mushroom hunting, can be overshadowed by the presence of endlessly buzzing and biting little midges – gnats. Moshkara, swirling like a cloud near a person, is constantly looking for a victim, and midge bites are not so harmless.After an insect bite, swelling appears, puffiness, which not only itches a lot, but can also lead to unpredictable consequences. In addition, swelling from a midge bite can last for several days, and traces on the skin sometimes remain for 2-3 weeks.

A midge bite – what is the danger

Edema after an insect bite is most dangerous because representatives of the Diptera family bring an infection under the skin. Their saliva contains substances that cause swelling of the affected area.For example, mosquitoes simply pierce the skin with their proboscis, and midges literally bite into open areas of the body, releasing saliva, which can cause severe allergies. From contact with an insect, the bitten area always swells. In addition, pathogens of various diseases often enter the human body with the saliva of midges.

Midge bites usually occur on open areas of the body and face. Especially unpleasant is the swelling from the bite near the eye, the swollen eyelid drops and covers the eye partially or completely.However, the gnat can also penetrate under clothing, so bites are sometimes found in unexpected places.

People who are surrounded by a person with allergies should be aware of the presence of an allergic disease in order to provide assistance in time.

People prone to allergies suffer from a bite so much that they have high blood pressure, dizziness, shortness of breath, in the worst case, anaphylactic shock is possible. Therefore, allergy sufferers should always have with them a special set of medicines, selected by a doctor, when going out into nature.For this category of people, a midge bite can be not only dangerous to health, but lead to death.

Emergency measures in case of bite

As soon as you find a midge bite, you should urgently take emergency measures. This will significantly reduce the itching, swelling, and general discomfort caused by a midge bite. What can be done to alleviate the condition in nature?

• First, decontaminate the bite site. Any alcoholic solution will do.For example, in the forest you may have vodka or other strong alcohol with you. If you come by car, then ordinary brilliant green will come in handy, which is always in a car first-aid kit.
• Soda diluted in the proportion: a teaspoon to half a glass of water will help remove the tumor. Take a piece of cloth (it can be a handkerchief), soak it liberally in the solution and make a compress. After a while, the tumor will begin to subside. But where in the forest can you get soda? This method can only be used upon arrival home or if the gnome attacked you at the dacha.
• Any remedy with menthol will temporarily relieve the itching from the bite, and the place where the midge dug will not itch and swell. Menthol is found in toothpaste. Simply squeeze it onto your fingertips and apply liberally over the bite. It helps quite effectively.
• It is good to apply ice wrapped in a cloth to the bite. The cold will prevent the swelling from growing and relieve irritation. You will have to keep the ice compress for about 2-3 hours, periodically changing the ice in it.
• In order not to scratch the bite, you need to wipe it with vinegar solution.Only not with essence (skin burns are possible), but with a solution of vinegar and water in a ratio of 1:10. The resulting mild vinegar will disinfect the bite and soothe the itching.
• If you have an allergy, you should immediately take a tablet of “Suprastin” or another antihistamine. The pill will soothe for a while and itching.

If all of the above does not help, and the swelling becomes more and more, and blisters join it, then the midge was the carrier of the infection. In this case, you must immediately visit a doctor.Allergy sufferers should also contact a specialist if a familiar familiar drug does not help.

What to do if a midge has bitten in the face

The most dangerous and unpleasant consequences of contact with insects in the face area are bites near the eyes and lips.

When a midge bites in the eye area, it begins to water, itch and almost instantly closes with a swollen eyelid. In addition, brushing with dirty hands can lead to infection. Allergy sufferers from a bite in the eye area may develop edema with short-term loss of vision.If you do not take action in time, there can be serious complications.

When bitten on the lip, it swells up so that sometimes it becomes impossible to talk.

What measures can be taken to prevent complications from a midge bite in the most tender parts of the face:

• Never rub or scratch the bite site. Otherwise, damage to the mucous membrane of the eye or lips cannot be avoided.
• Apply any anti-inflammatory cream to the swelling. This will reduce the effects of the bite, plus the cream will act as an antibacterial agent.
• After a bite, drink plenty of fluids to remove toxins.
• Plants growing in the country or in the forest will become real helpers with an insect bite. Plantain leaves are a well-known healing agent, and young bird cherry or currant leaves are also suitable.
• A slice of raw potato can be applied to the eye to cool the affected area and soothe itching. Better yet, use grated potato gruel.
• Fresh parsley compress will also help.The plucked greens need to be brewed, moistened with a small piece of cloth in the infusion and applied to the bite site in the form of a compress.

Taking any antihistamine will relieve itching. The most popular are Claritin, Tavegil, Suprastin, Diazolin.

Traditional medicine for gnat bites

After a gnat bite, you can help yourself with folk remedies before returning home. All of them are able to alleviate the unpleasant symptoms of a midge bite: soothe itching and reduce tissue swelling due to the ingestion of insect saliva.Consider the simplest recipes for traditional medicine:

• Rub the bite with the cut onion;
• grease the affected area with cabbage gruel;
• knead a mint leaf and apply to the bite;
• Squeeze lemon juice and apply to swelling;
• Squeeze out juice from a freshly plucked dandelion and treat the bite site.

Some products are so affordable that you can use them immediately after the bite, while still in nature (for example, in the country).The sooner measures are taken, the less pronounced the consequences of the bite will be.

Prevention: how to avoid midge bites

Obsessive midge bites are easier to prevent than to deal with. When going to nature, do not forget that a variety of insects will join you: mosquitoes, especially near water bodies, as well as gadflies and midges that live mainly in swampy places. The midge becomes especially active in the evening, at sunset.

Going into nature, you always need to take with you remedies for annoying insects, which can now be purchased at any supermarket or pharmacy. Repellents can be in the form of a gel, spray, cream, etc., choose a product with a convenient method of application for you. The manufacturer also indicates in the annotation for how many hours the effect of the agent is calculated. This information will help you find the best repellent for your event.

Care must be taken when choosing products for children; the packaging must indicate that it can be used for a child.Adult repellents are not suitable for children!

The midge does not like the smell of lavender, cloves, mint very much, so you can use the essential oils of these plants to treat clothes and apply to the skin (very carefully so as not to cause an allergic reaction).

There is a proven method of using regular crystalline vanillin as a protection against midges. It is widely used by fishermen and people living in Siberia, where midges are abundant. It is necessary to mix crystalline vanillin with water, wait until the powder is completely dissolved, then pour into a bottle equipped with a spray bottle and sprinkle as needed on clothes and a tent.The smell of vanilla will ward off annoying midges. The product is safe for children.

When going out into nature, you should take care of your clothes: a wind jacket with elastic sleeves will protect your arms and body, and long trousers or pants tucked into boots or sneakers will protect your legs and feet. If you expect a large number of insects, it is better to purchase a mosquito net

Appropriate outfit is a guarantee that almost all parts of the body will be covered from annoying insects, which means that after rest you will not have unpleasant consequences and regrets.

Thus, it is quite possible to cope with a midge bite on your own using folk remedies. However, the bite sites cause discomfort in the form of constant itching and swelling of the affected area of ​​the face or body, in addition, there is a possibility of infection if pathogens of any diseases were in the insect’s saliva. Therefore, it is always best to try to avoid such troubles. To do this, you should take precautions: do not wear open clothes in the forest or on the river and always go out into nature, armed with insect repellents.Let your outdoor recreation always bring only positive impressions!

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