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(HealthNewsDigest.com) – It’s a fact of life. Once the weather turns warm, it’s the rare individual who doesn’t get at least a few bug bites. Most of the time they aren’t serious* and can be treated at home. But the pain and itching that often comes with a sting can be annoying. Here’s what you can do to reduce these symptoms.
Tips for taking the “bite” out of the bite
If you’re stung by a bee or other insect that leaves a stinger behind, try to remove it as soon as you can. Use a straight-edged object like a credit card or a dull knife to gently scrape it out. Do not squeeze, because that will inject more venom in the skin.
Wash the area with soap and water. Do this two or three times a day until the skin heals.
Apply a cold pack over the area of the bite. You can use an ice pack or ice wrapped in a cloth or a cool, wet washcloth. Leave it on for 10 minutes and then off for 10 minutes and repeat. Elevate the part of the body that was stung when possible.This will help reduce swelling and pain.
Note: If you have poor circulation, diabetes or a blood vessel disorder such as Raynaud’s syndrome, talk with your doctor before using an ice pack.
To help reduce itching and discomfort, you can:
Put corticosteroid cream, a baking soda and water paste or calamine lotion on the area. Note: Do not apply calamine to the face or genital area.
Take an oral over-the-counter antihistamine.
Take acetaminophen for pain.
Follow the directions and any precautions printed on the label when taking over-the-counter medications. If you are taking prescription drugs or have a chronic illness, talk with your doctor before taking over-the-counter medications.
If you have a history of severe reactions to bee stings, talk with your doctor about carrying an injectable form of epinephrine for emergency treatment.
*When a bug bite is an emergency
For most people, an insect bite is no cause for worry. But for people who are allergic, it can be life threatening. Call 9-1-1 immediately for emergency help if anyone bitten by a bug has:
Swelling of the face, tongue or mouth
Difficulty swallowing or speaking
Chest tightness or pain, wheezing or trouble breathing
Dizziness or fainting
Abdominal pain, nausea or vomiting
Raised, red bumps on the skin (hives or welts)
Had a serious reaction in the past and begins to feel symptoms
Many stings take several days to heal. However, call your doctor if:
The wound seems to be getting worse over several days
The wound is oozing or developing into a deep sore.
The bitten area is still painful after 24 hours.
The affected area is red, swollen, painful and has streaks coming from it.
You have a fever.
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