Home Treatments for Common Insect Bites and Stings

May 7, 2017

Spending so much time outside makes it more likely we’ll encounter biting or stinging insects. Luckily, most aren’t serious.

It’s inevitable that, at some point, we will all receive a bite or sting from a pest. For most people, the result might be some itching, stinging, swelling, or redness, but nothing significant. For a select few, a more serious reaction will occur. If that happens, come in to your local Quick Care Med immediately.

Most mild reactions will not require medical treatment, and can be treated at home.

Try these tips:

• Apply a cool compress, or ice pack, to the area to reduce swelling and stinging
• Apply a topical treatment to the bite or sting, such as a baking soda paste, calamine lotion, or an over-the- counter hydrocortisone ointment, to help with the itching. Reapply throughout the day, as needed
• Try not to scratch the area. Excessive scratching could lead to infection. If infection is suspected, seek medical advice.

If the bite is from a tick, the body of the tick will need to be removed as soon as possible. Pull the tick straight out with tweezers, or while wearing gloves. Be careful not to crush the body.

If stung by a bee, it may be necessary to remove the stinger. Pull the stinger straight out with tweezers. Be sure not to press on the venom sack surrounding the sting. Take Ibuprofen or Acetaminophen for pain.

Spider bites can be tricky. Most don’t require any further treatment than those listed above. However, if you suspect you have been bitten by a black widow or brown recluse spider, it is best to seek medical advice from one of our Quick Care Med providers and get the appropriate medications, if necessary.

Severe reactions to bites or stings can occur in some people. If you experience trouble breathing, severe swelling, or feel faint, seek urgent treatment.

While waiting:

• Take an over-the-counter antihistamine immediately
• Lie down with your feet raised above your heart
• Watch for seizures or fainting

Remember to wear protective clothing and use insect repellent whenever you are at risk for bites and stings. While it won’t protect you from every type of pest, it can keep your risks down.

Feedback

The entire staff was very caring. I had my toddler with me and she was a bit rowdy and they gave her crayons with coloring pages and stickers and even a lollipop to help keep her occupied.

Tanya C.

My son scribbled on a piece of paper and handed it to one of the woman in the front, saying that is say how his ears hurt, she accepted it and posted it on the artwork wall, when the PA came in to see him he was made to feel like a big deal because he had known about the paper. This is a place where the staff really cares about their patients and go the extra mile for them

Ron M.

Have been there a few times and hey have always been very fast, kind, courteous and welcoming. Always very helpful especially the front desk. The employee Heather helped me with pharmacy, paperwork and everything I needed help with. Only quick care I go too because of her.

Sapphire B.

I absolutely love our nurse Tiffany. She made our visit so comfortable. I had two very sick little boys who did not want to go to the Dr. She made the at ease in an instant and she took such great care of them. This was at the Quick care on 441 in Ocala Fl. I'll go back to this one because of her. And recommended to all my friends and family. Thanks so much!

Ray L

A Big THANK YOU, to the Staff at Quick Care Med, in Dunnellon!! My Husband was seen, for a couple different ailments, during his visit,, and the Two Practitioners who worked with Him, were AWESOME! They treated my Big, 200 pound, 6 ft. "Baby",, with Respect, Dignity, and Professionalism, and just the right amount of Calming Firmness!! Lol... he's afraid of Needles, and Doctor Offices, in general and I must say, that GWEN, & DEBBIE, were very good to him! Prices for services rendered, were ve

Cindy J.

Great sweet people

Myranda W

I was there yesterday and I've never felt so shocked. The 3 girls I interacted with were the most pleasant and friendly caregivers I've ever dealt with. Idr the rep's name, but she was quick and prompt at taking all my info and with minimal Qs (kinda hard to answer when I have a cold), then Alexis took over. Very sympathetic, nice, and helpful. Then the physician saw me and was charismatic and very funny. Trying to keep me in good spirits. It was like all 3 were happy to be at their posts and to

Julio R

Anytime, we've ever been there, all of the physicians are very caring and helpful, they don't rush or make you feel unimportant... I wish we could have them as our GP

Di C.

Very friendly,professional. Very caring of patients.Victoria was excellent. Took time to listen and made you feel comfortable.

Breonna S

We had Zaib Kahn as the provider and NEVER have I seen such a good bedside manner, as they call it! AND he personally called this a.m. to ask how my husband is feeling! (The pharmacy was closed when we left the ofc., and they asked us to allow until 11 to pick up the RXs, but that's NOT YOUR fault ;D I'm thrilled w/ Mr. Kahn's service and may well use your clinic for ALL my medical needs!!!! THANK YOU

Frank R

Professional staff, caring and organized. Prompt service for DOT related visits.

John S

The absolute BEST! Everyone here is so nice! We've had to come in a few times & they've always taken great care of us. We're usually out within 20-30 min. All the girls up front are very nice & helpful (you don't find that too often), so is the girl that takes your vitals. Dr B is the amazing! He takes his time to listen to what's wrong & always has a big smile. If we could have this office as our primary care location we would

Ryan M

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