Insect Bites

Symptoms & Causes of Insect Bites:

• When bugs bite the skin, they typically inject salivary fluid, which can cause swelling, itching and burning. The affected area may also tingle.
• If you experience any of the following symptoms, call for emergency medical attention:
• Dizziness
• Cramping
• Rapid and excessive swelling
• Unconsciousness
• Trouble breathing
• Flies, mosquitoes, ticks, spiders and fleas can all cause itchy skin reactions.
• Note: some people may develop allergic reactions to insect bites, and some spiders can be poisonous. If you are concerned by a reaction you are having, you should consult your physician.

>>Treatment & prevention of insect bites

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Treatment of Insect Bites:

• Hydrocortisone relieves

  Many doctors will recommend using a hydrocortisone product. For a safe and effective way to relieve itching and reduce redness fast, try CORTAID^® Intensive Therapy Cooling Spray or CORTAID^® Maximum Strength Cream.

• Cool it off

  Apply an ice pack to a bite or sting for 15 to 20 minutes once an hour for the first 6 hours. When not using ice, keep a cool, wet cloth on the bite or sting for up to 6 hours. Always keep a cloth between your skin and the ice pack, and press firmly against all the curves of the affected area. Do not apply ice for longer than 15 to 20 minutes at a time, and do not fall asleep with the ice on your skin.

• Warm it up

  After the first 6 hours, if swelling is not present, try applying warmth to the site for comfort.

Prevention of Insect Bites:

• Keep them at a distance

  Apply insect repellent before going into the woods or other areas where you may come in contact with insects. Use insect repellents according to directions, particularly when applying repellent to children.

• Don’t attract them

  Avoid wearing perfumed lotions, aftershave, or scented hair products during the warm months. These products can attract biting insects.

>>Resources

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You can learn more about insect bites from the following online articles:

WebMD^® - Insect Bites and Stings and Spider Bites

Symptoms, treatment, and prevention of common insect bites

American Academy of Dermatology^® – Take the “Bite” Out of Summer

Additional tips on preventing insect bites

American Academy of Dermatology^® – Find a Dermatologist

Find a doctor near you.

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