Insect bites
During the summer months it is quite common to be bitten or stung by a variety of insects.
In the main these will cause a localised reaction of redness, swelling, some heat around the reddened area and also may have a small amount of fluid coming from the bite.
However, occasionally these bites cause a more severe looking reaction that can occur even several days after the initial bite or sting has happened.
On these occasions, the swelling may be more severe and there may be a large red, swollen area, sometimes including a whole limb. You may also have some bruising around the area.
There is a need to distinguish between an infection from an allergic reaction – if the reaction comes up quickly (first day or two) and is itchy it is likely to be an allergic reaction. If it comes on after a few days and you feel pain then an infection may have started.
The initial treatment in the first day or two is the same and you should start by taking a ANTIHISTAMINE such as Piriton.
If you do take an antihistamine read the label and do not drive or operate machinery
You may also find it useful to take an ANTI-INFLAMMATORY medication such as ibuprofen (do not take these if you are asthmatic and have never taken them before). If you have a lot of localised reaction you can try an antihistamine cream or HYDROCORTISONE cream to apply over the bite itself.
ALL OF THESE CAN BE PURCHASED OVER THE COUNTER AT YOUR LOCAL PHARMACY - READ THE LABEL
Your local pharmacist can give you advice on which item would be suitable for your personal situation
You should elevate the area as often as possible and apply regular ice packs to the area. You should also increase your fluid intake but avoid alcohol as this will dehydrate you and may increase your temperature and in turn increase the itching.
If you have any signs and symptoms of infection such as tracking (a red line running away from the area towards your groin, underarm or neck), an increased temperature or an increased amount of pus coming from the bite, or if you are increasingly concerned about the bite, you should then see your practice nurse or GP who will assess the need for you to have antibiotic treatment.
