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Common Reactions and Treatments for Insect Bites

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If you are experiencing a mild reaction to an insect bite, your symptoms may include: an annoying itching or stinging sensation, mild swelling, fever, hives, painful joints, or swollen glands. To treat this level of reaction, there are several things you should do.

First, move to an area where you will be safe from additional stings. Next, used a straight-edged object to scrape off the stinger. Do not try to pull the stinger out, as doing so could release more venom. After the stinger has been removed, wash the affected area with soap and water. Apply a cold pack to reduce the pain and swelling. Several times a day, you should apply a 0.5 percent or 1% hydrocortisone cream or calamine lotion to the bite or sting. Do this until your symptoms subside. You may also need to take an antihistamine containing diphenhydramine or chlorpheniramine maleate. These ingredients are found in Benadryl, Tylenol Sever Allergy, Chlor-Trimeton, and Teldrin. If you are experiencing nausea, intestinal cramps, diarrhea or swelling larger than 2 inches in diameter, you could be having an allergic reaction and should see your doctor promptly.

Severe reactions to an insect bite will include symptoms such as: difficulty breathing, swelling of the lips or throat, faintness, dizziness, confusion, rapid heartbeat, hives, nausea, cramps, or vomiting. These types of reactions progress rapidly, so dial 911 or call for medical assistance immediately.

While waiting for help to arrive, there are several actions you need to take. First, check to see if the person is carrying any medications to treat an allergic attack, such as an auto-injector of epinephrine. Administer the drug as directed, and then massage the injection area for 10 seconds to enhance the absorption of the medicine. After administering the medication, help the person take an antihistamine pill if they can do so without choking. Have the person lie on their back with their feet elevated higher then their head. Loosen the persons clothing and cover them with a blanket. Do not give them anything to drink. If they are bleeding from the mouth or they are vomiting, turn them on their side to keep them from choking. Begin CPR if the person shows no signs of circulation (breathing, coughing, or movement).

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