Insect Bites and Stings
Insect bites are common, especially in the summer when we are outdoors more often and our skin is mostly exposed. The types of reactions that may occur with insect bites depends upon the type of insect, the age of the child, and the reactivity of the child.
- Insect bites may cause single lesions, or multiple lesions gathered together.
- Itching usually occurs, and may be mild to severe
- Redness or swelling may be a common side effect
- Complications of insect bites may include hives, swollen glands, or a localized skin infection.
Some of the typical culprits that cause bites include flies, mosquitores, beetles, fleas, bees, hornets and wasps.
Prevention
- Always remember to wear appropriate clothing when outdoors, especially at dawn and dusk
- Insect repellants - for children, use a repellent with DEET concentration of less than 10%. Always wash off repellent before bedtime.
Treatment
- Localized itching can be treated with an over-the-counter hydrocortisone, such as Cortaid. A cool compress or ice pack may also be of benefit.
- Benadryl may be used if there are multiple bites that cause severe itching, or any signs of hives.
If the bites appear to be increasing in size AND cause pain when touched, call our office and speak to one of our nurses to assure that there are no signs of infection. It is rare for infection to develop in the first 24-48 hours.