Insect Bite

Overview

    Insect bites are, mostly, not severe
    Sometimes they cause a severe allergic reaction, anaphylaxis
    Anaphylaxis is life-threatening if not treated on time
    Sting of bees, wasps, hornets / bite of fire
ants, painful
    Bites of insects, like mosquitoes, cause itching
    The bite of a black widow spider can be fatal, if left untreated


Insect Bites

   Causes Examples of biting insects

    Mosquitoes
    Fleas
    Mites
    Spiders

Examples of stinging insect

    Bees
    Wasps
    Hornets

    Symptoms

    Localized Pain
    Swelling
    Redness
    Itching
    Numbness
    Burning
    Tingling sensation
    Breathlessness
    Weakness

   Treatment

    Remove the stinger using a straight- edged object
    Wash the area thoroughly with soap and water
    Place ice wrapped in a cloth on the affected area
    Repeat after every 10 minutes
    Apply a gentle cream to prevent itching
    Take anti histamines if necessary
    Observe for signs of infection like pain, redness or swelling

In case of emergency-

    Try to keep the person calm
    Check the person's breathing
    Remove constricting items, like rings, from finger/nose/ears
    Do     Cardio Pulmonary Resuscitation (CPR), if necessary
    If the person is carrying an emergency kit, use it
    If required, treat the person for signs of shock
    Seek medical help as soon as possible

   Consult a Doctor In case of the following, seek medical help

    Wheezing
    Swelling on the face
    Difficulty in breathing
    Tight feeling in the throat
    Body turning blue

   Steps to Avoid

    Do not remove the stinger using a tweezer
    Do not apply a tourniquet
    Aspirin, pain medications, should not be given unless advised by a doctor

   Prevention

    Avoid placing hand near the mouth of a seizure-affected person
    Take caution to prevent your child from developing biting habit