Search results
Insect bites or stings are not usually serious and get better in a few days. But sometimes they can become infected or cause a serious allergic reaction. Bites from some insects can also cause illnesses, such as Lyme disease from ticks, scabies from mites, and malaria from mosquitoes in certain parts of the world.
Most animal bites are not serious, but you may need to get medical help if the bite is severe or there are signs of infection. This page is about human bites and bites from animals, such as cats and dogs, that have broken the skin.
Looking after your bite: Try to keep the wound elevated (up high) if you can. If there is a dressing on it try to keep it clean and dry. See your doctor if the skin around the bite becomes: Painful. Swollen. Red and puffy. Smelly. If you get: a high temperature. start to shake badly. feel really unwell. come to the hospital’s ED Minor Injury ...
It may develop immediately after being bitten. A weal lasts about two hours, but is often followed by a small itchy solid lump which develops up to 24 hours later. This can last for several days before fading away. Occasionally, small skin reactions following an insect bite persist for weeks or months.
- Symptoms of Insect Bites and Stings
- When to See A Pharmacist
- Preventing Insect Bites and Stings
- Managing Infestations
- Travelling Abroad
The main symptoms of an insect bite or sting are: 1. pain where you were stung or bitten 2. a small, swollen lump on the skin 3. redness 4. itching These symptoms will usually continue for a few days after the bite or sting.
A pharmacist can advise you about medicines that can help ease the symptoms of a bite or sting like: 1. antihistamines 2. steroid creams 3. painkillers They can also provide other treatments if you need them, without you seeing a GP.
There are things you can do to help prevent insect bites and stings. If you come across wasps, hornets or bees don’t panic or wave your arms around. You should move away slowly. If you’re outside: 1. cover your skin with long sleeved clothing and shoes 2. use insect repellent 3. keep food covered 4. avoid using strong perfumes that can attract inse...
If you have been bitten by fleas or mites, you may have an infestation in your home. To manage this, you should: 1. speak to a vet about treatments for your pet 2. treat bedding, carpets and soft furnishings with insecticide 3. vacuum carpets and soft furnishings Bedbug infestations will need to be treated with insecticide. A pest control company w...
There’s a risk of catching diseases like malariafrom insect bites in certain parts of the world. This includes Africa, Asia and South America. You may need to take antimalarial tablets to avoid becoming infected. Further information on travel health and vaccinations
Nov 30, 2023 · Honeybees. Wasps. Yellow Jackets. Knowing what stung you or bit you can help you distinguish between a temporary annoyance and a potential medical emergency. If you are allergic to certain insect bites or stings, for example, you may develop a severe and life-threatening reaction called anaphylaxis.
People also ask
What happens if you get a bite from an insect?
What are the symptoms of an insect bite or sting?
How long does an insect bite last?
How do I know if I have a bite or sting?
What happens if you are allergic to insect bites or stings?
What should I do if I have an insect bite or sting?
What may happen after an insect bite or sting? Skin reaction: For example, a small itchy lump sometimes with redness around area. Skin infection: Occasionally a skin infection develops particularly if you scratch a lot. Infection causes redness and tenderness around the bite.