usvi-on-line
Bug Bite Help.
-
IslandElle
- Posts: 72
- Joined: Sun Nov 15, 2009 8:21 pm
- Location: Dallas
Bug Bite Help.
I am begging for some help. I really hope someone has a solution. We were at Salt Pond yesterday and as the sun started to set the bugs came out like crazy. I am thinking it was noseeums because mosquito bites usually go away in a few hours, for me at least. Or maybe it was sand fleas. Either way, I am covered in bites and I don't know what to put on them to help with the itching or healing. I have had bites that haven't healed from almost 2 weeks ago. The worst though is the ones from last night. I bet I have about 75 bites from my waist to my face. I have never been bitten like this before. It is miserable.
I have tried, neosporin, aloe, a DR. prescribed cream and lanacane. I think I will try calamine lotion next but if any of you wonderful people have any ideas I would be so grateful. Thank you so much.
I have tried, neosporin, aloe, a DR. prescribed cream and lanacane. I think I will try calamine lotion next but if any of you wonderful people have any ideas I would be so grateful. Thank you so much.
I feel your pain, this has happened to me before, huge awful infected bites. In addition to the benadryl cream already mentioned, you may want to try and take some benadryl pills, it could help with the itching. It will make you drowsy though, so make sure not to drink any alcohol.
Does your villa have a bathtub? I know most don't for obvious reasons, but if yours does you can try taking an aveeno bath, or an oatmeal bath. Maybe you could make a paste of aveeno and apply it to the bites.
If you are in really really bad pain from the itching, maybe you should go to the clinic. They might be able to give you a shot to help with the reaction you are having.
Does your villa have a bathtub? I know most don't for obvious reasons, but if yours does you can try taking an aveeno bath, or an oatmeal bath. Maybe you could make a paste of aveeno and apply it to the bites.
If you are in really really bad pain from the itching, maybe you should go to the clinic. They might be able to give you a shot to help with the reaction you are having.
It's like looking in your soup and finding a whole different alphabet.
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IslandElle
- Posts: 72
- Joined: Sun Nov 15, 2009 8:21 pm
- Location: Dallas
-
IslandElle
- Posts: 72
- Joined: Sun Nov 15, 2009 8:21 pm
- Location: Dallas
Thank you Liamsaunt,
I am not in pain, just really itchy at this point. We leave tomorrow to go to VG for one more week then home. I just want to be able to get it under control. I didn't know they could get infected, I guess that is why they say to not scratch? I did take a Benadryl so we will see if that helps. No luck with the bath tub. I plan on checking Starfish or Chelsea's for the gel. I bet they will have something. Thanks a lot!
I am not in pain, just really itchy at this point. We leave tomorrow to go to VG for one more week then home. I just want to be able to get it under control. I didn't know they could get infected, I guess that is why they say to not scratch? I did take a Benadryl so we will see if that helps. No luck with the bath tub. I plan on checking Starfish or Chelsea's for the gel. I bet they will have something. Thanks a lot!
I found that the pharmacist at the pharmacy in the starfish complex (upstairs) was really helpful and got us all sorted out in that regard when my son had some bad reaction to something down there--
maybe try to go and speak to him--
sorry you are so uncomfortable!!! that really stinks!
maybe try to go and speak to him--
sorry you are so uncomfortable!!! that really stinks!
< leaving on the 22nd of march...but too lame to figure out the ticker thing again!>
Elle-- benadryl clear gel works like a charm. But be careful about using a lot of that AND taking the benadryl pills at the same time. Just keep that in mind.
The pills will usually make you drowsy.
Afterbite pens work too but they contain ammonia amd really can sting, plus they don't last long. The benadryl gel is better.
Being in the saltwater will help prevent infection and eases itching IMHO. So just hang out in the water a lot (not the pool but the ocean). Then reapply the gel when you get out.
Also be careful about using sunscreen. Really bad bites that are exposed to a lot of sun tend to leave a dark spot on my skin for many many months. Being more diligent about sunscreen helps.
I mentioned on another thread why it's a REALLY BAD IDEA to be on the beach in late afternoon, this is why. The noseeums are BRUTAL. And if you must be on the beach use something with DEET, like Ben's bug spray.
One other option would be to check with the bush tea guy (I think he's out at Salt Pond on some days) or one of the locals. They may have a local remedy to help. Just another option.
The pills will usually make you drowsy.
Afterbite pens work too but they contain ammonia amd really can sting, plus they don't last long. The benadryl gel is better.
Being in the saltwater will help prevent infection and eases itching IMHO. So just hang out in the water a lot (not the pool but the ocean). Then reapply the gel when you get out.
Also be careful about using sunscreen. Really bad bites that are exposed to a lot of sun tend to leave a dark spot on my skin for many many months. Being more diligent about sunscreen helps.
I mentioned on another thread why it's a REALLY BAD IDEA to be on the beach in late afternoon, this is why. The noseeums are BRUTAL. And if you must be on the beach use something with DEET, like Ben's bug spray.
One other option would be to check with the bush tea guy (I think he's out at Salt Pond on some days) or one of the locals. They may have a local remedy to help. Just another option.
*Another fine scatterbrained production
Hello, last November a friend of mine got a bad case of sun poisoning as well as some bug bites. My husband went to the pharmacy above Starfish Market and talked to the Pharmacist. I don't remember the name of the stuff he recommended, I do know it came in a white plastic bottle and provided almost instant relief! So my suggestion is to go to the Pharmacy and talk to the specialist!
[quote="liamsaunt"]I feel your pain, this has happened to me before, huge awful infected bites. In addition to the benadryl cream already mentioned, you may want to try and take some benadryl pills, it could help with the itching. It will make you drowsy though, so make sure not to drink any alcohol.
Does your villa have a bathtub? I know most don't for obvious reasons, but if yours does you can try taking an aveeno bath, or an oatmeal bath. Maybe you could make a paste of aveeno and apply it to the bites.
If you are in really really bad pain from the itching, maybe you should go to the clinic. They might be able to give you a shot to help with the reaction you are having.[/quote]
I was thinking of both of these. Elle, you may be having an allegic reaction to the bites and a shot or Rx steriods might qwell the itching.
Does your villa have a bathtub? I know most don't for obvious reasons, but if yours does you can try taking an aveeno bath, or an oatmeal bath. Maybe you could make a paste of aveeno and apply it to the bites.
If you are in really really bad pain from the itching, maybe you should go to the clinic. They might be able to give you a shot to help with the reaction you are having.[/quote]
I was thinking of both of these. Elle, you may be having an allegic reaction to the bites and a shot or Rx steriods might qwell the itching.
PA Girl--that is a very good point.
Although inevitably there will be more costs involved (granted this doesn't matter when your health is on the line.)
Any systemic reaction should be seen by a doctor immediately. This includes hives wherever they may occur, swelling in the face, shortness of breath or wheezing, difficulty swallowing, and light-headedness or fainting. These usually occur within minutes to an hour after the sting.
Local reactions generally don't require professional care. However, if your local reaction causes enough swelling or pain to distract you from your normal activities or keep you awake despite basic treatment, you should see a doctor. If the redness/swelling is worsening after 24 hours, see your doctor.
Keep in mind that anything with steroids or something along those lines will require you to limit sun exposure for the rest of your trip.
The pharamcist is also a great resource as mentioned already.
Although inevitably there will be more costs involved (granted this doesn't matter when your health is on the line.)
Any systemic reaction should be seen by a doctor immediately. This includes hives wherever they may occur, swelling in the face, shortness of breath or wheezing, difficulty swallowing, and light-headedness or fainting. These usually occur within minutes to an hour after the sting.
Local reactions generally don't require professional care. However, if your local reaction causes enough swelling or pain to distract you from your normal activities or keep you awake despite basic treatment, you should see a doctor. If the redness/swelling is worsening after 24 hours, see your doctor.
Keep in mind that anything with steroids or something along those lines will require you to limit sun exposure for the rest of your trip.
The pharamcist is also a great resource as mentioned already.
*Another fine scatterbrained production
Found this:
Noseeum Bite TreatmentContributor
By Melissa Worcester, eHow Contributing Writer
It seems strange that a bug small enough to be called a noseeum (sandflea) can have a bite that can cause problems. Noseeums have sharp biting parts, and their bites are painful immediately, unlike a mosquito, where you might not notice you've been bitten. Noseeums tend to bite en masse, or the same one will bite several times. It's typical to be bitten a dozen times or more on a rather small area of exposed skin, and the bites are usually extremely itchy.
Treat the Itch
The big danger with noseeums is that you can have many bites on a relatively small area of your body, such as your arms or lower legs, if they were uncovered when the noseeums were out. Or if you were wearing a bathing suit, you might have a large quantity of bites all over your body. The bites can itch much worse than mosquito bites, and if you have several in the same area, the itching can be intense. Scratching will make it worse, so try hard not to scratch. Use the strongest topical analgesic you can find, and consider taking an oral analgesic as well. Look for a gel, cream or spray that contains a topical analgesic and an ingredient that will treat the cause of the itch, such as cortisone or an antihistamine. An oral antihistamine may be in order if the itching is especially intolerable.
Guard Against Infection
Bites can become infected. Clean any open blisters with hydrogen peroxide and put antibiotic ointment on them. If they still itch, look for antibiotic ointment that also treats pain, since the topical analgesic that is meant for pain will also help the itching.
Beware of Possible Complications
There are many species of small biting insects around the world. Most will just cause annoying bites that itch, but some can transmit more dangerous diseases. If you develop a fever or open sores, consult a doctor and make sure you tell her about the noseeum bites.
Prevention
Once you've suffered an episode of multiple noseeum bites, you'll be motivated to keep it from happening again. Noseeums come out at dusk and tend to be more active again at dawn, and they like areas near water. They can often come through window screens, but you'll be much more at risk outside. Lights attract them, so keep them off, and wear clothing that covers your skin. Use a bug repellent that contains DEET. In your own yard, you can prevent them from breeding by dumping out any containers that collect water and treating any standing water or puddles with an insecticide.
http://www.ehow.com/way_5209747_noseeum ... tment.html
Noseeum Bite TreatmentContributor
By Melissa Worcester, eHow Contributing Writer
It seems strange that a bug small enough to be called a noseeum (sandflea) can have a bite that can cause problems. Noseeums have sharp biting parts, and their bites are painful immediately, unlike a mosquito, where you might not notice you've been bitten. Noseeums tend to bite en masse, or the same one will bite several times. It's typical to be bitten a dozen times or more on a rather small area of exposed skin, and the bites are usually extremely itchy.
Treat the Itch
The big danger with noseeums is that you can have many bites on a relatively small area of your body, such as your arms or lower legs, if they were uncovered when the noseeums were out. Or if you were wearing a bathing suit, you might have a large quantity of bites all over your body. The bites can itch much worse than mosquito bites, and if you have several in the same area, the itching can be intense. Scratching will make it worse, so try hard not to scratch. Use the strongest topical analgesic you can find, and consider taking an oral analgesic as well. Look for a gel, cream or spray that contains a topical analgesic and an ingredient that will treat the cause of the itch, such as cortisone or an antihistamine. An oral antihistamine may be in order if the itching is especially intolerable.
Guard Against Infection
Bites can become infected. Clean any open blisters with hydrogen peroxide and put antibiotic ointment on them. If they still itch, look for antibiotic ointment that also treats pain, since the topical analgesic that is meant for pain will also help the itching.
Beware of Possible Complications
There are many species of small biting insects around the world. Most will just cause annoying bites that itch, but some can transmit more dangerous diseases. If you develop a fever or open sores, consult a doctor and make sure you tell her about the noseeum bites.
Prevention
Once you've suffered an episode of multiple noseeum bites, you'll be motivated to keep it from happening again. Noseeums come out at dusk and tend to be more active again at dawn, and they like areas near water. They can often come through window screens, but you'll be much more at risk outside. Lights attract them, so keep them off, and wear clothing that covers your skin. Use a bug repellent that contains DEET. In your own yard, you can prevent them from breeding by dumping out any containers that collect water and treating any standing water or puddles with an insecticide.
http://www.ehow.com/way_5209747_noseeum ... tment.html
*Another fine scatterbrained production
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Shellseeker
- Posts: 19
- Joined: Sat Apr 10, 2010 10:23 pm
IslandElle, really sorry to hear of your multiple insect bites. I know many others have posted great information from various sources already. The following info is from the University of Maryland Medical Center's web site (scroll down for their thoughts on medical, dietary supplements, herbs and homeopathic remedies that some people have found helpful for insect bites). Of course, you should consult with a medical authority before embarking on anything listed. It would be time/money well spent so you can continue your vacation. Good luck to you!!
UMD Medical Center info:
Insect bites and stings
Introduction:
Insect bites or stings can be from a number of insects including bees, spiders, fleas, hornets, wasps, and mosquitoes. Some cause itching; others cause pain. The itching and pain occur because the insect has injected venom or another irritating substance into your skin, which causes an allergic reaction. In most cases, this reaction is bothersome but not dangerous. However, a severe reaction can cause anaphylaxis, resulting in shortness of breath and tightening of your throat. Anaphylaxis can be fatal, even on the first reaction. Severe reactions can affect the whole body and may occur in minutes. This is a medical emergency and you should call 911. Another type of allergic reaction is called angioedema, which involves swelling throughout your body, especially the face, lips, and around the eyes. More people have allergic reactions to stinging insects than to biting insects.
Signs and Symptoms:
•Red, swollen, warm lump
•Hives
•Itching, tenderness, pain
•Sores from scratching; can become infected
•Serious allergic reactions (called anaphylaxis) when symptoms spread. These can include difficulty breathing, dizziness, nausea, fever, muscle spasms, or loss of consciousness. Call for emergency medical help right away.
Causes:
Stinging insects include bumblebees, yellow jackets, hornets, wasps, and fire and harvester ants. Biting insects include conenose bugs, mosquitoes, horseflies, deerflies, spiders, ticks, bedbugs, and black flies.
Prevention
•Try not to provoke insects. For example, avoid rapid, jerky movements around insect hives or nests.
•Avoid perfumes, lotions, and scented soaps.
•Avoid areas where you know insects are.
•Use insect repellants and protective clothing. (See more details below.)
•Be careful when eating outdoors, especially with sweet drinks (such as sodas) or in areas near garbage cans.
•Make sure you have screens on all windows.
•To keep mosquito eggs from hatching, remove any standing water.
•Mosquitoes are most active at dawn and dusk, so avoid being outside during those times.
•Use citronella, linalool, and geraniol candles. In one study, citronella candles reduced the number of female mosquitoes cuaght in traps by 35%; linalool candles reduced female mosquitoes by 65%; and geraniol candles reduced female mosquitoes by 82%.
If you know that you have a serious allergy to an insect, carry an emergency epinephrine kit. Your doctor can prescribe one. Make sure that friends and family members know how to use an Epi-pen if you have had a reaction in the past. Wear a medical ID bracelet. For those with allergies, venom immunotherapy is up to 98% effective in preventing sting anaphylaxis.
If you are traveling to an area where malaria is common, ask your doctor about a malaria vaccine.
You can prevent insect bites and stings with proper clothing:
•Cover your head. Wear a full brimmed hat to help shield your neck as well.
•Wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants.
•Tuck pant cuffs into socks. This helps protect your ankles -- a common spot for bites or stings.
•Check your clothes and hair periodically for bugs.
•Use protective netting when sleeping or eating outdoors.
Applying insect repellent to your clothes instead of your skin can help prevent any skin irritation. When in an area infested with mosquitoes, sand flies, or ticks, use a chemical insect repellent such as DEET. DEET has been the most effective and broadly used insect repellent for the past 6 decades. Don't apply insect repellent to sunburned skin. When applying both sunscreen and bug repellent, apply the sunscreen first. Wait 30 minutes before applying the bug repellent.
Don't use bug repellent on children's hands because they may rub their eyes or put their hands in their mouths.
Treatment Approach:
In most cases, bites and stings can be easily treated at home. However, don't try to treat a suspicious bite on your own; when in doubt, call your doctor. In the case of a severe allergic reaction such as anaphylaxis, you must seek emergency medical help. Do not try to treat anaphylaxis with complementary therapies alone. If such an emergency occurs:
•Check the person's airway, breathing, and pulse. If necessary begin CPR and call 911.
•Use the person's epinephrine pen or other emergency kit if they have one. (Anyone who has had a serious allergic reaction to an insect sting should carry an Epi-pen or its equivalent at all times.)
•Try to keep the person calm.
•Remove any rings and other constricting items in case of swelling.
•Stay with the person until medical help arrives.
Lifestyle
Redness, minor swelling, pain, or itching at the site of the bite generally go away in 3 - 7 days with no treatment, even if the affected area is large. To relieve your symptoms, follow these steps:
•Remove the stinger if it is still present by scraping the back of a credit card or other straight edged object across the stinger. Don't use tweezers to pull out the stinger -- that may release more venom.
•Wash thoroughly with soap and water to avoid infection. Watch for signs of infection, such as increased redness or red streaking along your skin, over the next several days.
•Place an ice pack, wet compress, or ice wrapped in a cloth on the site of the sting for 10 minutes, then off for 10 minutes.
•Take an antihistamine or apply a cream that reduces itching (such as Calamine or Benadryl ointment) if the bite itches. You can also use a paste made of 3 parts baking soda to 1 part water.
Medications
•Antihistamines can be used to reduce itching and swelling.
•If you develop an infection at the site of the bite, your doctor may prescribe antibiotics.
•In case of a severe reaction, emergency medical personnel may give intravenous (IV) antihistamines and epinephrine (adrenaline).
Nutrition and Dietary Supplements
Including some nutrients in your diet may help support your immune system and possibly reduce any inflammation or allergic reaction you may have from an insect bite or sting, although there is no scientific evidence that they will be effective. Talk to your doctor before taking a supplement to make sure that it is safe for you and will not interact with any medications that you regularly take.
•Quercetin (400 - 500 mg per day) -- a flavonoid and antioxidant found in many plants that may help reduce allergic reactions. The water-soluble kind of quercetin, sometimes called hesperidin methylchalcone (HMC) or quercetin chalcone, is more easily absorbed and has stronger effects for some people.
•Vitamin C (1,000 mg 2 - 6 times per day for a short period) -- Supports immune system function and also enhances the effect of quercetin. Lower dose if diarrhea develops
•Zinc (30 mg per day) -- Animal studies suggest that zinc may help protect against gastrointestinal symptoms (stomach cramps, nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea) that sometimes accompany anaphylaxis.
•Omega-3 fatty acids (fish oil) -- may help reduce inflammation in the body, so some experts think they might also protect against severe allergic reactions. In one study, there was a lower death rate from anaphylactic shock in animals on a high omega-3 fatty acid diet compared to those on a high omega-6 fatty acid diet. But researchers don't know if the same would be true of humans. More studies are needed. Omega-3 fatty acids can have a blood thinning effect and should be used with caution in people with bleeding disorders or who use blood thinning medications. Talk to your doctor.
Herbs
The use of herbs is a time honored approach to strengthening the body and treating disease. Herbs, however, can trigger side effects and can interact with other herbs, supplements, or medications. For these reasons, you should take herbs with care, under the supervision of a health care practitioner.
Some herbs that have been used traditionally at the site of an insect bite or sting to reduce symptoms include:
•Lemon balm (Melissa officinalis)
•Stinging nettle ( Urtica dioica; Urtica urens)
•Tea tree oil (Melaleuca alternifolia)
•Calendula (Calendula officinalis)
•Plantain (Plantago major)
Some essential oils may help repel insects. Dilute the oil before applying to your skin; never apply pure oil directly. These oils include:
•Eucalyptus (Eucalyptus globulus)
•Clove (Eugenia caryophyllata)
•Citronella (Cymbopogon spp.)
•Neem oil or cream (Azadirachta indica)
Homeopathy
Few studies have examined the effectiveness of specific homeopathic remedies. A professional homeopath, however, may recommend one or more of the following treatments for insect bites and stings based on his or her knowledge and clinical experience. Before prescribing a remedy, homeopaths take into account a person's constitutional type. In homeopathic terms, a person's constitution is his or her physical, emotional, and intellectual makeup. An experienced homeopath assesses all of these factors when determining the most appropriate remedy for a particular individual.
•Apis mellifica -- for stinging pains with rapid swelling and affected area that is warm to the touch; this remedy is most appropriate for individuals who feel better with cold applications; Apis is recommended if hives are present or if Ledum does not reduce pain or swelling after 4 hours
•Hypericum -- for bites accompanied by sharp, shooting pains that often occur in sensitive areas, such as at the ends of fingers or toes
•Ledum -- most commonly used homeopathic agent for bites and stings from bees, mosquitoes, wasps, or spiders; affected area is cold to the touch but cold applications or immersion in cold water improves symptoms
•Staphysagria -- for children with large, itchy mosquito bites that may create large welts
•Urtica urens -- for red, swollen bites with itching and stinging; may be used instead of Apis to treat hives
Alternative Names:
Bites and stings - insect; Stings and bites - insect
•Reviewed last on: 12/7/2009
•Steven D. Ehrlich, NMD, Solutions Acupuncture, a private practice specializing in complementary and alternative medicine, Phoenix, AZ. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
Supporting Research
Auerbach: Wilderness Medicine, 5th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Mosby Elsevier Inc. 2007.
Aberer E. What should one do in case of a tick bite? Curr Probl Dermatol. 2009;37:155-66.
Blumenthal M, Goldberg A, Brinckmann J, eds. Herbal Medicine: Expanded Commission E Monographs. Newton, Mass: Integrative Medicine Communications; 2000; 230-232, 379-384.
Cavanagh HM, Wilkinson JM. Biological activities of lavender essential oil. Phytother Res. 2002;16(4):301-308.
Conforti A, Bertani S, Metelmann H, Chirumbolo S, Lussignoli S, Bellavite P. Experimental studies of the anti-inflammatory activity of a homeopathic preparation. BiolTher. 1997;15(1):28-31.
Coverman MH. Alternative therapies for acne, aphthae, insect bites, and callous diseases. Cermatol Clin. 1989;7(1):71-72.
Cummings S, Ullman D. Everybody's Guide to Homeopathic Medicines. 3rd ed. New York, NY: Penguin Putnam; 1997: 301-302.
Golden D. Insect Sting Anaphylaxis. Immunology and Allergy Clinics of North America. 2007;27(2).
Hill N, Stam C, Tuinder S, van Haselen RA. A placebo controlled clinical trial investigating the efficacy of a homeopathic after-bite gel in reducing mosquito bite induced erythema. Eur J Clin Pharmacol. 1995;49(1-2):103-108.
Jonas WB, Jacobs J. Healing with Homeopathy: The Doctors' Guide. New York, NY: Warner Books; 1996: 146.
Katz TM, Miller JH, Herbert AA. Insect repellents: historical perspectives and new developments. J Am Acad Dermatol. 2008;58(5):865-71.
Kruzel T. The Homeopathic Emergency Guide. Berkeley, Calif: North Atlantic Books; 1992:198-200.
Lukwa N, Molgaard P, Mutambu SL, Musana BJ. Seven essential oils inhibit Anopheles arabiensis mosquito biting. Cent Afr J Med. 2002;48(11-12):141-143.
Mueller GC, et al. Ability of essential oil candles to repel biting insects in high and low biting pressure environments. J Am Mosq Control Assoc. 2008;24(1):154-60.
Oyedele AO, Gbolade AA, Sosan MB, Adewoyin FB, Soyelu OL, Orafidiya OO. Formulation of an effective mosquito-repellent topical product from lemongrass oil. Phytomedicine. 2002;9(3):259-262.
Pitasawat B, Choochote W, Tuetun B, et al. Repellency of aromatic turmeric Curcuma aromatica under laboratory and field conditions. J Vector Ecol. 2003;28(2):234-240.
Tawatsin A, Wratten SD, Scott RR, Thavara U, Techadamrongsin Y. Repellency of volatile oils from plants against three mosquito vectors. J Vector Ecol. 2001;26(1):76-82.
Trongtokit Y, Rongsriyam Y, Komalamisra N, Apiwathnasorn C. Comparative repellency of 38 essential oils against mosquito bites. Phytother Res. 2005;19(4):303-9.
Ullman D. Homeopathic Medicine for Children and Infants. New York, NY: Penguin Putnam; 1992: 52.
UMD Medical Center info:
Insect bites and stings
Introduction:
Insect bites or stings can be from a number of insects including bees, spiders, fleas, hornets, wasps, and mosquitoes. Some cause itching; others cause pain. The itching and pain occur because the insect has injected venom or another irritating substance into your skin, which causes an allergic reaction. In most cases, this reaction is bothersome but not dangerous. However, a severe reaction can cause anaphylaxis, resulting in shortness of breath and tightening of your throat. Anaphylaxis can be fatal, even on the first reaction. Severe reactions can affect the whole body and may occur in minutes. This is a medical emergency and you should call 911. Another type of allergic reaction is called angioedema, which involves swelling throughout your body, especially the face, lips, and around the eyes. More people have allergic reactions to stinging insects than to biting insects.
Signs and Symptoms:
•Red, swollen, warm lump
•Hives
•Itching, tenderness, pain
•Sores from scratching; can become infected
•Serious allergic reactions (called anaphylaxis) when symptoms spread. These can include difficulty breathing, dizziness, nausea, fever, muscle spasms, or loss of consciousness. Call for emergency medical help right away.
Causes:
Stinging insects include bumblebees, yellow jackets, hornets, wasps, and fire and harvester ants. Biting insects include conenose bugs, mosquitoes, horseflies, deerflies, spiders, ticks, bedbugs, and black flies.
Prevention
•Try not to provoke insects. For example, avoid rapid, jerky movements around insect hives or nests.
•Avoid perfumes, lotions, and scented soaps.
•Avoid areas where you know insects are.
•Use insect repellants and protective clothing. (See more details below.)
•Be careful when eating outdoors, especially with sweet drinks (such as sodas) or in areas near garbage cans.
•Make sure you have screens on all windows.
•To keep mosquito eggs from hatching, remove any standing water.
•Mosquitoes are most active at dawn and dusk, so avoid being outside during those times.
•Use citronella, linalool, and geraniol candles. In one study, citronella candles reduced the number of female mosquitoes cuaght in traps by 35%; linalool candles reduced female mosquitoes by 65%; and geraniol candles reduced female mosquitoes by 82%.
If you know that you have a serious allergy to an insect, carry an emergency epinephrine kit. Your doctor can prescribe one. Make sure that friends and family members know how to use an Epi-pen if you have had a reaction in the past. Wear a medical ID bracelet. For those with allergies, venom immunotherapy is up to 98% effective in preventing sting anaphylaxis.
If you are traveling to an area where malaria is common, ask your doctor about a malaria vaccine.
You can prevent insect bites and stings with proper clothing:
•Cover your head. Wear a full brimmed hat to help shield your neck as well.
•Wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants.
•Tuck pant cuffs into socks. This helps protect your ankles -- a common spot for bites or stings.
•Check your clothes and hair periodically for bugs.
•Use protective netting when sleeping or eating outdoors.
Applying insect repellent to your clothes instead of your skin can help prevent any skin irritation. When in an area infested with mosquitoes, sand flies, or ticks, use a chemical insect repellent such as DEET. DEET has been the most effective and broadly used insect repellent for the past 6 decades. Don't apply insect repellent to sunburned skin. When applying both sunscreen and bug repellent, apply the sunscreen first. Wait 30 minutes before applying the bug repellent.
Don't use bug repellent on children's hands because they may rub their eyes or put their hands in their mouths.
Treatment Approach:
In most cases, bites and stings can be easily treated at home. However, don't try to treat a suspicious bite on your own; when in doubt, call your doctor. In the case of a severe allergic reaction such as anaphylaxis, you must seek emergency medical help. Do not try to treat anaphylaxis with complementary therapies alone. If such an emergency occurs:
•Check the person's airway, breathing, and pulse. If necessary begin CPR and call 911.
•Use the person's epinephrine pen or other emergency kit if they have one. (Anyone who has had a serious allergic reaction to an insect sting should carry an Epi-pen or its equivalent at all times.)
•Try to keep the person calm.
•Remove any rings and other constricting items in case of swelling.
•Stay with the person until medical help arrives.
Lifestyle
Redness, minor swelling, pain, or itching at the site of the bite generally go away in 3 - 7 days with no treatment, even if the affected area is large. To relieve your symptoms, follow these steps:
•Remove the stinger if it is still present by scraping the back of a credit card or other straight edged object across the stinger. Don't use tweezers to pull out the stinger -- that may release more venom.
•Wash thoroughly with soap and water to avoid infection. Watch for signs of infection, such as increased redness or red streaking along your skin, over the next several days.
•Place an ice pack, wet compress, or ice wrapped in a cloth on the site of the sting for 10 minutes, then off for 10 minutes.
•Take an antihistamine or apply a cream that reduces itching (such as Calamine or Benadryl ointment) if the bite itches. You can also use a paste made of 3 parts baking soda to 1 part water.
Medications
•Antihistamines can be used to reduce itching and swelling.
•If you develop an infection at the site of the bite, your doctor may prescribe antibiotics.
•In case of a severe reaction, emergency medical personnel may give intravenous (IV) antihistamines and epinephrine (adrenaline).
Nutrition and Dietary Supplements
Including some nutrients in your diet may help support your immune system and possibly reduce any inflammation or allergic reaction you may have from an insect bite or sting, although there is no scientific evidence that they will be effective. Talk to your doctor before taking a supplement to make sure that it is safe for you and will not interact with any medications that you regularly take.
•Quercetin (400 - 500 mg per day) -- a flavonoid and antioxidant found in many plants that may help reduce allergic reactions. The water-soluble kind of quercetin, sometimes called hesperidin methylchalcone (HMC) or quercetin chalcone, is more easily absorbed and has stronger effects for some people.
•Vitamin C (1,000 mg 2 - 6 times per day for a short period) -- Supports immune system function and also enhances the effect of quercetin. Lower dose if diarrhea develops
•Zinc (30 mg per day) -- Animal studies suggest that zinc may help protect against gastrointestinal symptoms (stomach cramps, nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea) that sometimes accompany anaphylaxis.
•Omega-3 fatty acids (fish oil) -- may help reduce inflammation in the body, so some experts think they might also protect against severe allergic reactions. In one study, there was a lower death rate from anaphylactic shock in animals on a high omega-3 fatty acid diet compared to those on a high omega-6 fatty acid diet. But researchers don't know if the same would be true of humans. More studies are needed. Omega-3 fatty acids can have a blood thinning effect and should be used with caution in people with bleeding disorders or who use blood thinning medications. Talk to your doctor.
Herbs
The use of herbs is a time honored approach to strengthening the body and treating disease. Herbs, however, can trigger side effects and can interact with other herbs, supplements, or medications. For these reasons, you should take herbs with care, under the supervision of a health care practitioner.
Some herbs that have been used traditionally at the site of an insect bite or sting to reduce symptoms include:
•Lemon balm (Melissa officinalis)
•Stinging nettle ( Urtica dioica; Urtica urens)
•Tea tree oil (Melaleuca alternifolia)
•Calendula (Calendula officinalis)
•Plantain (Plantago major)
Some essential oils may help repel insects. Dilute the oil before applying to your skin; never apply pure oil directly. These oils include:
•Eucalyptus (Eucalyptus globulus)
•Clove (Eugenia caryophyllata)
•Citronella (Cymbopogon spp.)
•Neem oil or cream (Azadirachta indica)
Homeopathy
Few studies have examined the effectiveness of specific homeopathic remedies. A professional homeopath, however, may recommend one or more of the following treatments for insect bites and stings based on his or her knowledge and clinical experience. Before prescribing a remedy, homeopaths take into account a person's constitutional type. In homeopathic terms, a person's constitution is his or her physical, emotional, and intellectual makeup. An experienced homeopath assesses all of these factors when determining the most appropriate remedy for a particular individual.
•Apis mellifica -- for stinging pains with rapid swelling and affected area that is warm to the touch; this remedy is most appropriate for individuals who feel better with cold applications; Apis is recommended if hives are present or if Ledum does not reduce pain or swelling after 4 hours
•Hypericum -- for bites accompanied by sharp, shooting pains that often occur in sensitive areas, such as at the ends of fingers or toes
•Ledum -- most commonly used homeopathic agent for bites and stings from bees, mosquitoes, wasps, or spiders; affected area is cold to the touch but cold applications or immersion in cold water improves symptoms
•Staphysagria -- for children with large, itchy mosquito bites that may create large welts
•Urtica urens -- for red, swollen bites with itching and stinging; may be used instead of Apis to treat hives
Alternative Names:
Bites and stings - insect; Stings and bites - insect
•Reviewed last on: 12/7/2009
•Steven D. Ehrlich, NMD, Solutions Acupuncture, a private practice specializing in complementary and alternative medicine, Phoenix, AZ. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
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