Treating Bug Bites and Stings: A Guide to Relief and Prevention
Identify the Insect
Insects, spiders, and scorpions are capable of causing painful reactions and other symptoms. It’s helpful to know what did the biting or stinging and the risks involved:
Ease the Pain
Once you’ve removed yourself from the source or setting of the bite, there are some basic steps you can take to ease the pain, itching, burning, or swelling from a bug bite or sting:
Watch for Complications
The most serious concern is a bite that triggers an extreme reaction in a sensitive person, known as anaphylaxis. While the bite or sting itself may only leave one hole, the reaction can be severe and life-threatening.
When to Call 911
Insect bites can sometimes lead to a serious allergic reaction called anaphylaxis. Seek immediate medical attention for signs and symptoms that include:
Additional Reading
Author Bio
Rod Brouhard, EMT-P is an emergency medical technician paramedic (EMT-P), journalist, educator, and advocate for emergency medical service providers and patients.
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