For a minor insect bite, perform first aid on yourself as soon as you can. First, wash the area thoroughly with mild soap and water.
If you were stung by an insect, feel your skin for stingers. Should you detect one, use a flat-edged item like a credit card to scrape it away, making side-to-side motions. Avoid using tweezers, as they can force the stinger and the insect venom deeper into your skin.
Once you have the area cleansed, place a cool, damp cloth or a cold compress like an ice pack on the affected area for 10 to 20 minutes. If you were stung on your arm or leg, keep it elevated while you administer cool therapy. These interventions can help reduce swelling.
For a very mild reaction, you may not need to do anything beyond basic first aid, but if discomfort persists, you can get relief with over-the-counter products such as:
If you’ve never used the over-the-counter treatment you intend to use for insect bite first aid before, check with your medical provider first. Over-the-counter medications are generally safe for most people, but they could cause interactions with some other medications or worsen symptoms of certain chronic conditions. Your medical provider can let you know whether a topical or oral medication is suitable for you.
When a bite itches, you may feel the urge to scratch, but resist it. Scratching and picking at bites can interfere with the healing process and introduce germs that give rise to infections. Use topical treatments to deal with the itch, and engage in activities you enjoy to distract yourself from the discomfort.
Some people may experience severe reactions when bitten by insects due to allergies. An allergy to insect bites can occur at any age, even if you’ve been bitten or stung by the same type of insect before. As a result, it’s important to monitor yourself for signs of health complications from bites, such as:
If you develop any of these symptoms, seek emergency medical attention. Also, let someone know that you were bitten or stung so they can call for help if you suddenly develop severe symptoms.
In most cases, insect bites will heal on their own, but it’s still important to be on the lookout for signs of infection, such as:
If you experience any of these symptoms, let your health care provider know as soon as possible so they can prescribe an antibiotic to fight the infection.
No insect bite prevention method is 100% effective, but you can take steps to lower your risk of getting bitten or stung while outdoors. Follow these tips to protect yourself from pests.
Wear socks, long sleeves and pants when you’ll be in outdoor areas. Choose ones made of breathable fabrics like cotton or linen for comfort. Tuck your shirt into your pants, and consider options with collars and cuffs that can make it more difficult for insects to get inside.
Along with sunscreen, apply an insect repellent before you head outdoors. Look for ones that contain ingredients registered with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The agency offers a handy guide for choosing an insect repellent to help you select the right one.
Bites don’t just happen when you’re outside. Open windows and doors may help cool down your home during the summer months, but they can also allow biting and stinging insects inside. Install screens to help keep bugs at bay. Before the season starts, inspect the screens for holes and repair or replace them as needed.
Bug bites usually aren’t serious, but that doesn’t mean you can’t discuss them with your health care provider. The tips that appear above are general information and no substitute for personalized medical advice. Ask your medical provider what you should do to treat insect bites, and stock up on the over-the-counter products they recommend to ensure you’re prepared for summer.
*Please don't remove this section it is working with 3 TalkFurther buttons on live url
The Gardens Assisted Living and
Memory Care
1302 W. Sunset St.
Springfield, MO 65807
Sales & Marketing: (866) 406-5081