In the summer, there are numerous outdoor activities to enjoy with your family and friends. It is likely that insects and other creatures will join us as we spend time outside. Bug bites, like all other types of injuries, are common at the Immediate Care clinic.
Here are some tips to protect yourself from bug bites.
To protect yourself from being bitten by insects, we strongly recommend that you put on proper clothing, such as long sleeves, before stepping outside. When you are in a wooded area, wearing long, comfortable pants will help protect your legs.
In addition to bug-resistant clothes, there are commercial products available that can repel insects such as mosquitoes, ants, beetles, and even ticks.
If you are also wearing sunscreen, apply your sunscreen first, let it dry, and then apply the insect repellent. Avoid using sunscreen that contains insect repellent, as you should apply sunscreen liberally and often and apply insect repellent sparingly.
Treating Bites
Regarding bites, do not be alarmed, as most of them are simply localized skin irritations. If you experience stings from bees, wasps, or other insects, it is critical to remove their stingers since they can attract other insects. Gently cleanse the bite area with soap and water.
You can reduce some of the pain by applying a cloth dampened with cold water or filled with ice to the affected skin. Keep it on for 10 to 20 minutes. This helps reduce pain and swelling. You can also take a tiny dose of Benadryl to alleviate the pain.
If the redness and swelling surrounding the bite mark deepen and become more inflamed, or if you have a fever, headache, or other similar symptoms, you should wait a day or two before seeking medical care. However, if the symptoms persist or you develop serious reactions such as hives, trouble breathing, vomiting, or diarrhea, seek treatment at White-Wilson Immediate Care.
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