Search results
People also ask
Are insect bites serious?
Should you be worried about a bite or sting from an insect?
Can an insect bite cause a sting?
What happens if you get a bite from an insect?
What are the symptoms of an insect bite or sting?
What happens if you bite a bug in the UK?
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.
- 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
Jul 31, 2024 · Most of the time though, an insect bite is nothing to worry about. It will die down without causing lasting damage, and your itch-free summer can resume. Seek urgent medical attention, by dialling 999 - if in the UK - if you have signs of an allergic reaction. This includes:
Sep 20, 2024 · A bite or sting from an insect can be a concern, especially if you're not sure what's caused it or it leads to unexpected or worrying symptoms. Our guide matches photos of stings to the different insects that cause them, plus Professor Claire Anderson, president of the Royal Pharmaceutical Society, explains how to treat them effectively.
Oct 31, 2023 · Insect bites (not stings) rarely cause serious allergic reactions but can cause small itchy lumps to appear on the skin. Itch may be eased by a soothing ointment, antihistamine tablets, or steroid cream. Some insects infest pets, furniture, etc, and can cause repeated bites.
Consider the need for admission if cellulitis is severe, the person is severely immunocompromised or treatment in primary care fails. Insects bite by puncturing the skin with piercing mouthparts (for example mosquitos and bedbugs) or by lacerating the skin.
Apr 27, 2021 · Encounters with insects or arachnids can result in bites or stings. Bites stem from puncture with a proboscis (head appendage) or fangs, or from chewing with mouth parts.