First aid advice for bug bites

Bug bites can be hard to avoid if you spend a lot of time outdoors. Check out this advice for distinguishing between mild and severe symptoms and recognizing when to self-treat and when to seek professional help.

Most reactions to bug bites are only mild, causing little more than minor itching, stinging and swelling that usually clears up within a few days. To relieve your symptoms, follow these steps:

• Move to a safe place to avoid being bitten again.
• Wash the affected area of your skin with soap and water.
• Apply a cold compress to reduce pain and swelling.
• Avoid scratching the area to prevent infection.
• Take a pain reliever to control pain.
• Apply a topical cream to relieve itching.
• Take an antihistamine to treat swelling.

When administering any pain relievers, topical creams or antihistamines, always follow the directions on the packaging and be sure to consult a doctor if you any concerns about using the product. If a bug bite causes swelling that is larger than 10 centimetres (4 inches) in diameter, see a doctor promptly.

Severe reactions to bug bites affect more than the site of the bite and may progress rapidly. Call for emergency medical assistance if you experience any of these signs or symptoms:

• Difficulty breathing
• Swelling of the lips, tongue or throat
• Light headedness
• Confusion
• Rapid heartbeat
• Hives
• Nausea, stomach cramps or vomiting

Take these actions while you wait for medical help:

• Take any medicines your doctor may have prescribed to treat a severe allergic reaction, such as an auto-injector of epinephrine. Be sure to follow any instructions that your doctor has provided.
• Stay in a position that is comfortable and allows you to breathe easily.
• Lie flat and elevate your legs if you feel faint.
• Remove or loosen tight clothing.

If you are prone to bug bite reactions, consider taking these precautions to minimize your risk of future reactions:

• Cover exposed skin when you are outside.
• Apply bug spray containing a chemical called diethyltoluamide (DEET) to exposed areas of skin.
• Avoid using scented products on your skin, as these products can attract bugs.
• Avoid hanging out near ponds and swamps. Horse-flies and mosquitoes are often found near water.
• Install insect screens in your doors and windows to stop bugs from entering your home.

If you have had a severe reaction to a bug bite in the past, seek advice from your doctor. You may need to carry an auto-injector pen in case of an emergency.

In most cases, bug bite reactions are easy to treat. However, it is important to assess the symptoms and apply the right first aid for your needs. If you have any concerns about bug bites, be sure to talk with your doctor.