Insect Bites and Stings
Overview
Causes
Insect bites and stings are caused by:
- Biting insects—such as mosquitoes, fleas, and ticks
- Stinging insects—such as bees, yellow jackets, hornets, wasps, and fire ants
Mosquito Bite |
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SymptomsandDiagnosis
Symptoms
Most insect bites and stings cause a skin reaction around the bite. The most common ones are:
- Mild swelling
- Redness
- Pain
- Heat
- Itching
Symptoms of a severe allergic reaction include:
- Problems breathing or wheezing
- Swelling, redness, or hives
- The throat feels like it is closing
- Belly pain, nausea or vomiting
- Headache, muscle aches, or cramps
- Weakness
- Fever, chills, or sweating
Treatments
Treatment
Treatment often depends on how severe the reaction is to the sting or bite. Most insect bites or stings can be treated at home. Those with allergic reactions to certain insects need medical care.
Options may be:
- Safe removal of the stinger or tick
- Washing the area—to prevent infection
- Applying cold compresses—to reduce swelling
- Pain medicines, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen —to reduce swelling and pain
- Antihistamines, lotions, and steroid pills or creams—to ease itching
Medical Attention
Severe allergic reactions need medical care right away. This may include:
Severe allergic reactions need medical care right away. This may include:
- Emergency treatment for life-threatening symptoms
- Medicines to reduce swelling and other allergic reactions
- IV fluids
This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.
Edits to original content made by Denver Health.
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