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When you spend time outdoors, you may have to deal with insects and their bite habits, such as mosquitoes, flies, ticks, ants and spiders.
Yes, insect repellent exists. However, they are not foolproof and not everyone has them on hand at all times.
Most bites are harmless.
However, if your body reacts poorly to insect bites, special care may be needed.
How to avoid insect bites
Here’s what professionals should know and do if you’re dealing with minor or severe insect bites.
Most bug bites can be treated at home
Dr Brian Mangum, an epidemiologist and associate professor of medicine at the Antigua University of Health Sciences, told Fox News Digital that most insect bites can be treated at home without requiring the attention of a medical professional.
“Generally, small insect bites cause itching, swelling, and a stinging sensation that subsides within a few days,” says Mangum.
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These symptoms also occur after an insect bite, he said. It can also cause allergic reactions after being stung by certain insect species (such as wasps, fire ants, and bees), especially in people prone to anaphylaxis.
Here’s how to treat minor bug bites
Mangum says it’s important to wash the bite site with soap and water.
He said that if you do get stung, you should remove the insect stinger from the area before washing.
After the insect bite has been disinfected, it is recommended to place ice, a cold damp cloth, or a bottle of cold water on the inflamed skin patch for about 20 minutes to reduce swelling and pain.
“You can also apply a calamine lotion, a paste made with baking soda and water, or a 1% hydrocortisone cream available over-the-counter at drug stores,” says Mangum.
“These also help reduce swelling.”
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If itching and inflammation persist around the bite site, antihistamines in the form of Benadryl (diphenhydramine) and over-the-counter pain relievers such as acetaminophen and ibuprofen are usually safe, says Mangum. said Mr.
“Remember to follow the manufacturer’s instructions,” he warned.
It is always wise to consult your doctor first when taking any medication.
When to Contact About Severe Insect Bites
Medical experts say it’s rare that a person needs to see a doctor for an insect bite.
Usually, this is an anaphylactic reaction, a severe and potentially life-threatening allergic reaction that can cause difficulty breathing, increased heart rate, and lightheadedness.
“If you have difficulty breathing, have swelling in your face, including lips, eyelids or throat, or feel dizzy or faint, do not hesitate to call 911,” Mangum told Fox News Digital. .
“Hives, nausea, vomiting and diarrhea are also warning signs of a serious reaction,” he said.
If anaphylaxis is suspected, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends evaluating the airways, breathing, and circulation.
CDC: How to Recognize the Signs of Anaphylaxis
Respiratory: throat tightness, high-pitched breathing, shortness of breath, wheezing, coughing
Gastrointestinal: nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain
Cardiovascular: dizziness, fainting, abnormally fast heart rate (tachycardia), and abnormally low blood pressure (hypotension)
Skin and mucous membranes: hives, itching, swelling of lips, face and/or throat
Nervous system: agitation, convulsions, sudden changes in mental state, sense of impending doom
The agency also says that people experiencing anaphylaxis symptoms should be placed on their backs. In other words, it lies horizontally with its head and torso facing upwards.
“People with a history of an allergic reaction to insect bites, known as anaphylaxis, should ask their doctor about carrying an epinephrine syringe, which can be administered quickly in an emergency and can save lives,” Mangum said. rice field.
Avoid home remedies.be careful of infection
Most insect bites and stings can be treated at home with over-the-counter creams and medications, but according to Iza Correll, Physician Associate, Founder and CEO of OVI Healthcare, a zero-cost hospital, a DIY home can help. Therapy should be avoided. Care non-profit organization. She is based in Kenya.
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“Don’t apply home remedies or treatments that aren’t recommended by your doctor,” Correll told Fox News Digital.
“Our Children’s Hospital is located in Suna Migori, Kenya, so this topic is very familiar to me.”It certainly lives up to its name.”
She added that it’s important not to scratch insect bites “too much” as this can lead to infection.
If your symptoms worsen or if you have any questions or concerns, you should contact your healthcare provider.
“If the bite does not heal properly or becomes infected, it is important to seek medical attention,” Correll warned. “Signs of a worsening infection include fever, swelling, redness, and discharge from the wound. There are things.”
Regarding mosquito bite symptoms, the CDC notes that more severe reactions may occur in the following groups: An adult was bitten by a mosquito seed that had never been exposed before. People with compromised immune systems.
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It also says that people experiencing more severe reactions may have the following signs: low-grade fever; hives; and swollen lymph nodes.
If your symptoms worsen or if you have any questions or concerns, you should contact your healthcare provider.