First Aid For
Insect Bites

Most insect bites and stings are nothing more than irritating and itchy. Your doctor will probably never see you for an insect bite unless the insect was poisonous or you suffers from allergies. Here's what to look for.

You will need the Adobe Acrobat Reader to view this file, you can download it here.

First Aid Treatment:

• Wash the affected area with soap and water
• Place an ice pack on the affected area to reduce swelling
• If you are stung by a bee, wasp, yellow jacket or hornet remove the stinger by sliding the edge of a credit card or your fingernail along the skin gently dislodging the stinger
• If the site is sore or itchy apply calamine lotion or a solution of baking soda and water. Mix equal parts baking soda and water to create a paste. Place over the bug bite.

Watch for signs of an allergic reaction:

• Difficulty breathing
• Tightness in chest, wheezing
• Dizziness
• Vomiting, nausea or stomach cramping
• Difficulty swallowing

Seek medical help if…

• The sting is anywhere in the mouth
• An EpiPen was used
• You have any signs of an allergic reaction (see above)
• You have a history of allergic reactions

Of course the way to avoid being bitten in the first place, you could simply buy bug repellent.


Return to First Aid for...from First Aid for Insect Bites