Insect Bites and Stings

What is it?

A bite or sting from any insect.

Most insect bites and stings are mild and can be treated at home. They might cause itching, swelling and stinging that go away in a day or two. Some bites or stings can transmit disease-causing bacteria, viruses or parasites. Stings from bees, yellow jackets, wasps, hornets and fire ants might cause a severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis).

Plan of Action:

Mild reactions:

• Move to a safe area to avoid more bites or stings.

• Remove any stingers.

• Gently wash the area with soap and water.

• Apply a cloth dampened with cold water or filled with ice to the area of the bite or sting for 10 to 20 minutes. This helps reduce pain and swelling.

• If the injury is on an arm or leg, raise it.

• Apply to the affected area calamine lotion, baking soda paste, or 0.5% or 1% hydrocortisone cream. Do this several times a day until your symptoms go away.

• Take an anti-itch medicine (antihistamine) by mouth to reduce itching. Options include nonprescription cetirizine, fexofenadine (Allegra Allergy), loratadine (Claritin).

• Take a nonprescription pain reliever as needed.

Seek medical care if the swelling gets worse, the site shows signs of infection, or you don't feel well.

When to seek emergency care:

Call 911 or your local medical emergency number if anyone is having a serious reaction that suggests anaphylaxis, even if it's just one or two signs or symptoms:

• Trouble breathing

• Swelling of the lips, face, eyelids, or throat

• Dizziness, fainting, or unconsciousness

• A weak and rapid pulse

• Hives

• Nausea, vomiting or diarrhea

Take these actions immediately while waiting for medical help:

• Ask whether the injured person is carrying an epinephrine autoinjector (EpiPen, Auvi-Q, others).

• If yes, ask whether you should help inject the medication. This is usually done by pressing the autoinjector against the thigh and holding it in place for several seconds.

• Loosen tight clothing and cover the person with a blanket.

• Don't offer anything to drink.

• If needed, position the person to prevent choking on vomit.