Bug bites and insect stings are common. In most cases, the discomfort, itching, or redness caused by a bite or sting will improve without treatment within a few hours or days. However, sometimes you need to see a medical provider.
If any of your symptoms fails to improve or worsens within a few days or if you experience any symptoms of a severe allergic reaction (including difficulty breathing, dizziness, or a swollen face or mouth), seek medical attention immediately.
When to See a Doctor for a Bug Bite
It’s not uncommon for bug bites to cause small, swollen, red lumps to form on the skin. In some cases, bug bites can also cause itchiness and pain. These symptoms do not warrant medical attention as long as they start to improve within a few days.
However, if you notice any of the following after a bug bite or sting, contact your medical provider for care:
Symptoms that don’t improve or that worsen
A bite or sting near the eyes or in your mouth or throat
A patch of red and inflamed skin that is larger than 3.75 inches (10 centimeters)
Flu-like symptoms, including a fever or swollen glands
Additionally, the following symptoms could be a sign of a serious allergic reaction. If you experience any of the below, call 911 or seek emergency medical treatment:
Trouble breathing or shortness of breath
Wheezing
Throat tightness
Difficulty swallowing
Weakness
Turning blue or skin flushing
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Types of Bug Bites
Several insects can cause a bug bite or sting, including:
Wasps
Hornets
Bees
Horseflies
Ticks
Mosquitoes
Fleas
Bedbugs
Spiders
Midges
Determining If a Bug Bite Is Infected
It’s important to monitor your bug bite for signs of infection in the days following the initial bite or sting. Signs of infection can include:
Increasing redness, swelling, or pain
Pus
Flu-like symptoms, including a high fever
If you experience any of these symptoms, contact your medical provider for care.
At-Home Treatment for Bug Bites
If your bug bite or sting causes mild symptoms, you can treat the symptoms at home. At-home treatment methods include:
Remove the sting or tick if present and still embedded in the skin
Gently clean the bite or sting with soap and water
Apply a cold compress or ice pack for at least 10 minutes to reduce swelling
Elevate the affected area to reduce swelling
Avoid scratching the bite or sting
If needed, use an over-the-counter (OTC) antihistamine or anti-itch cream
Don’t use an OTC pain medicine (unless advised by a medical professional)
Don’t apply a tourniquet
Don’t apply home remedies such as baking soda or vinegar
Medical Treatment for Bug Bites
Medical treatment vary depending on the type of bug bite you have and the severity of your symptoms. If the bite is infected, your provider may prescribe oral or topical antibiotics. In severe cases, minor surgery may be recommended to drain an abscess.
In the case of allergic reaction, an injection of intramuscular epinephrine should be administered immediately. Epinephrine can be repeated every 5-15 minutes, depending on the severity of your symptoms. In some cases, your provider may also recommend additional treatments, including corticosteroids, albuterol, and/or antihistamines. In the rare but occasional case of contact with a venomous insect, antivenom treatment is available after consultation with a poison control center.
Though rare, some bug bites can also spread disease, such as malaria, Lyme disease, and West Nile virus. In those cases, consult a medical provider for the best treatment plan. In the case of Lyme disease, treatment strategies may be ongoing.
Risks of Untreated Bug Bites
Most bug bites cause mild symptoms that resolve on their own within a few days. But if you experience symptoms of an infection, leaving the bite untreated can allow the infection to spread, which can lead to a more serious condition. If an allergic reaction is untreated, it can lead to death.
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Prevention
Not all bug bites and stings are avoidable, but there are several strategies that can help to prevent them:
Wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants
Treat clothing with permethrin
Use bug screens on windows and doors
Use a mosquito net if sleeping outside or in a tent
Avoid areas with tall grass
Walk in the center of trails
Check clothing for ticks
Check gear and pets for ticks and other insects
Shower after being outdoors
Avoid using products with strong perfumes
Avoid wearing floral-patterned or dark clothing
Avoid insect nests
Avoid camping or hiking near still water (including ponds and swamps)
Keep food and drinks covered when eating outdoors
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