Treating Bug Bites

Summer time and bug bites go together like colds and winter. So how do we treat these bites?

Bee Stings

1. Remove the stinger by scraping with the edge of a credit card, drivers licenses or any plastic card.

2. Apply a cold pack to numb the area,and a paste of baking soda and water or hydrocortisone cream to reduce pain and swelling.

3. Take oral Benadryl to reduce symptoms of allergic reaction.

4. See a doctor right away if you've ever had an allergic reaction. Go to the ER if you break out in a rash or experience shortness of breath, lightheadness or vomiting.

Mosquito Bites

1. Numb the area with a topical anti-itch remedy containing ammonium solution or menthol (brand names) After bite, Sarna or a topical analgesic.

2. Apply a cool compress to calm itching and reduce swelling.

3. Use a topical hydrocortisone cream if you have an allergic reaction with a lot of swelling

4. Try oral Benadryl to reduce the histamine reaction that causes itching and swelling. Avoid topical Benadryl which can cause an allergic reaction

Tick Bites

1. Remove the tick with needlenose tweezers by grabbing the head or mouthparts,(not the body) and pulling firmly outward. Place the tick in alcohol to kill it.Take with you to show the doctor.

2. Watch for the rash that signals Lyme disease,which tends to expand in a ring around the original bite. If you see the rash or have other symptoms of Lyme, such as fever, joint pain, chills or fatigue, call your doctor right away.

3. Clean the wound with disinfectant.

4. Ask your doctor about preventive antibotics within 72 hours after a tick bite if you live in an area where Lyme disease is common.

Have a fun and safe summer.

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