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When Bug Bites and Stings Need Medical Attention

8/2/2023

Summertime brings sunshine, more hours outside and an increased risk of bug bites and stings. Insects like mosquitoes, ticks, bees and spiders are often harmless, but sometimes their bites and stings can spread disease or cause dangerous allergic reactions and infections.

An insect bite releases saliva and stings release venom that can cause skin to become red, swollen and itchy. When symptoms last longer than a few days, or they become worse, medical intervention may be required.

“If you spend time outside, it is nearly impossible to avoid getting bit or stung by an insect. That's why it is important to know when to seek medical treatment,” says Nicholas Ahn, M.D., internist with Commonwealth Health Physician Network in Dunmore. "Depending on the type and severity of a reaction to a bite or sting, you might need a topical ointment or antibiotics."

Dr. Ahn recommends seeking medical care if you experience the following:

An allergic reaction: Hives, rapid heartbeat, or swelling of the mouth, tongue and throat could indicate an allergic reaction or anaphylaxis. If you or a loved one are experiencing symptoms of an allergic reaction or anaphylaxis, which is life threatening, call 911 and administer epinephrine if it is available.

Cellulitis: Swollen lymph nodes and oozing pus can be symptoms of cellulitis, a non-contagious skin infection that requires antibiotics. If left untreated, it could cause sepsis.

Bite from a disease carrier: Ticks can carry Lyme disease and mosquitoes can spread viruses through their bites like West Nile and Zika. If bitten by a disease-carrying insect and you experience symptoms like fever, fatigue or red streaks surrounding the bite, seek medical attention.

Flu-like symptoms: Go to the emergency room if symptoms like chills, headache, sore throat and fever last more than 48 hours after a bite or sting or if symptoms worsen rapidly.

Worsening redness: Redness usually goes away after a few days, however, if the redness spreads or red lines from the bite site develop, it could be a sign of infection.

“To better protect yourself or your loved ones this summer, wear long sleeve shirts and pants, use insect repellents with DEET as an active ingredient and avoid bug-infested areas. Make it a point to check your skin when you go inside to find any insects that might have attached to you or bites needing treatment. It may be helpful to have someone else check hard-to-see areas like your back. Finally, if you see what bites or stings you, make a note of what the insect looks like. It might help your doctor determine the appropriate treatment for you,” says Dr. Ahn.

If you do experience an allergic or other serious reaction to a bug bite or sting, seek immediate care. To learn about emergency services at Commonwealth Health, visit https://www.commonwealthhealth.net/er-wait-time.