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.