How do you treat a patient with a possible insect bite or sting?
Apply 0.5 or 1 percent hydrocortisone cream, calamine lotion or a baking soda paste to the bite or sting several times daily until your symptoms go away. Take an antihistamine (Benadryl, others) to reduce itching.
Do I need antibiotics for an insect bite?
Insect bites and stings do not usually require antibiotic treatment. Signs of erythema and swelling are more often due to an inflammatory reaction than infection.
What’s the best way to treat an insect bite?
First aid for insect bites and stings. To treat an insect bite or sting: Remove the sting, tick or hairs if still in the skin. Wash the affected area with soap and water. Apply a cold compress (such as a flannel or cloth cooled with cold water) or an ice pack to any swelling for at least 10 minutes.
What to do if you get a sting from an insect?
If there is a sting present, gently remove the sting and wash the area with soap and water. Cold pack on the area for 10-15 minutes helps to reduce the mild reaction of red swelling of the bite or sting. It also helps to reduce any itching.
Can a community pharmacist help with insect bites?
As most insect bites and stings are self-limiting, a community pharmacist can advise about self-care treatments. Antihistamines are commonly used; however, there is uncertainty about their effectiveness in the management of bites and stings, 1 so symptoms may persist despite correct use.
How long does it take for an insect bite to heal?
An insect bite or sting will usually cause a swollen red area to develop on the skin. Most will settle on their own accord within a few hours or days. The severity of bites and stings will differ depending on the type of insect causing it and the sensitivity of the person.
First aid for insect bites and stings. To treat an insect bite or sting: Remove the sting, tick or hairs if still in the skin. Wash the affected area with soap and water. Apply a cold compress (such as a flannel or cloth cooled with cold water) or an ice pack to any swelling for at least 10 minutes.
If there is a sting present, gently remove the sting and wash the area with soap and water. Cold pack on the area for 10-15 minutes helps to reduce the mild reaction of red swelling of the bite or sting. It also helps to reduce any itching.
What can I take for swelling after a bee sting?
Take an oral antihistamine to reduce itching and swelling. A non-prescription non-sedating antihistamine, such as Zyrtec, can effectively treat swelling and irritation. This the more common form of OTC treatment used against allergic reactions. Look for an antihistamine that contains Chlorpheniramine or Diphenhydramine.
What’s the best way to treat a wasp sting?
Wash the area of the sting thoroughly to reduce the chances of infection. Cleaning the affected area with soap and water will help prevent an infection from forming. Rinse it thoroughly, washing away any dirt or sweat in the area of the sting. Be sure to rinse off any residual soap left behind. Do not pop any blisters that form after the sting.
