Treating Insect Bites

Treating Insect Bites

It's not always possible to avoid insect bites, but fortunately most situations are mild and can be treated at home. Find out what to do.

RELIEVE STINGS

Even when there is no bite, there is a reaction on the skin, which is almost always localized: the saliva left by the insect causes inflammation of the skin, accompanied by swelling, redness, itching and sometimes pain. These symptoms usually improve after a few hours or days.

Here are some measures to treat them:

- Wash the area with soap and water;

-Avoid scratching or popping any blisters, which can lead to infection;

- Apply ice or cold compresses and, if necessary, a soothing lotion;

- Elevate the affected area to help reduce swelling;

- Avoid traditional remedies such as vinegar and bicarbonate of soda;

- If you need medication to relieve pain, itching or swelling, ask your pharmacist for help.

In the case of a bee sting, remove the stinger (without bursting it); in the case of a tick sting, the tick should be completely removed as soon as possible - use tweezers (without crushing the tick) or seek medical attention.

THERE ARE BITES AND STINGS...

Some insect bites can sometimes become infected, cause more severe allergic reactions (anaphylaxis) or even toxic reactions (for example, in the case of multiple bites).
In addition, certain insects can carry diseases, which they transmit to us through their bites: this is the case with malaria, yellow fever and dengue fever. Although these are more common in other countries, it's important to prevent bites, even if you're not traveling

WHEN TO SEE A DOCTOR

- When symptoms don't improve after a few days or when they get worse;

- If the bite is in the mouth, throat or near the eyes;

- If a large area around the bite (10 cm or more) is swollen and red;

- If the bite shows signs of infection, such as pus, increased pain, swelling or redness;

- If you have symptoms of a generalized infection, such as fever, swollen glands and other flu-like symptoms.

If you have symptoms of a severe reaction (difficulty breathing or swallowing, swollen face, mouth or throat, loss of consciousness, dizziness, fainting, rapid heartbeat) call 112.

revision: July 2022 Infosaúde

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