Ask Dr. Dylan: Insect bites and stings

Dr. Dylan Wyatt, an emergency medicine physician at Aspirus-St. Luke’s, shares how manage those pesky insect bites and stings.

How should we take care of insect bites?

Dr. Dylan: Flies, Mosquitoes, and Tick bites aren’t dangerous by themselves, though they are uncomfortable. However, bug bites can be vectors for diseases such as Lyme disease from ticks and West Nile virus from mosquitoes.

First, take care to remove the offending insect if they are still attached. Clean the area thoroughly with warm water and soap. For itching, local calamine lotion or benadryl can help. We want to avoid scratching the bite areas, as opening them can lead to infection!

What about stings?

Dr. Dylan: Treat stings similarly with the key difference of removing the stinger rather than the offending insect. Don’t squeeze the stinger, instead try to scrape it off using the side of a credit card or your fingernail. Try to remove the stinger as soon as possible after being stung, as this will reduce the amount of venom introduced into your system. Afterwards, wash the area and apply a cold compress.

What are some signs that we need some medical attention?

Dr. Dylan: Keep a close eye on someone who has received a sting. If they begin to develop swelling in the tongue, a feeling of fullness in the throat, or trouble breathing seek medical attention immediately as these are signs of an allergic reaction.

Those who have known insect bite reactions should always carry an epipen on their person.

For both bites and stings, if you notice increasing redness or swelling in the few days after the bite seek medical attention as this is likely a developing infection.

How do we prevent bites or stings in the first place?

Dr. Dylan: Wear light colored clothing with long sleeves and pants, avoid working or playing in tall grass or brush. Use bug repellents containing DEET or lemon eucalyptus.

To reduce certain insect populations, be mindful of hives or standing pools of water and take care to remove them.