Whether you are inside or outside, any time of year, you or your children can be the target of bug bites or stings. Many bug bites are simply red and itchy, a minor annoyance, while stings, particularly if you have an allergic reaction, could be life-threatening. It’s important to be prepared for bug bites and stings and know the best way to handle them.
What Are Bug Bites and Stings?
Many bugs drink blood to survive, and to get it, they bite other animals, including humans. Some of these bugs may have saliva that interacts with the human body in undesirable ways, causing swelling, redness, and/or the creation of raised bumps and itching.
Certain insects, usually flying insects like bees, wasps and hornets, have a stinger with which they inject venom into the skin when they feel threatened. This venom can cause burning pain as well as swelling.
Do I Need Treatment for a Bug Bite or Sting?
In most cases, a topical over-the-counter cream for the itching and to avoid infection is sufficient. However, you may have an allergic reaction to a bug bite or sting, especially a sting. Symptoms of sting allergies can include difficulty breathing, a rash over the entire body, and major swelling. In the worst case, the victim can go into anaphylactic shock, which can be fatal.
If you or your child have a bug bite or sting allergy and are experiencing these symptoms, you should call 911 immediately. You should also carry an epinephrine injector (EpiPen®, available by prescription) for short-term rescue from symptoms.
How Do We Treat Bug Bites and Stings?
Assuming the bite or sting has not caused a severe reaction requiring emergency intervention, we will examine the bite or sting and in all likelihood prescribe some sort of topical medication for infection protection and relief of symptoms.
We may also recommend an antihistamine to relieve itching and inflammation. Some people, especially children, may develop an infection from a bug bite or sting. This can be characterized by fever, rash, swelling, body aches, and pus draining from the affected area.
BeWell Immediate Care for Bug Bites and Stings Near Whittier, CA
While most bug bites are relatively benign, some insect-borne infections can be quite serious, so if you suspect you or your child has one, you should definitely come in for a diagnosis. You can come in without an appointment and a visit is only $50, or $40 for a virtual consult. Come see us at 12533 Washington Blvd, Suite B in Whittier, CA. or schedule a consultation online.