Whether it is a bee sting or a spider bite, it is important to understand what to do to properly treat these irritations. With help from your dermatologist, you can properly treat your bite or sting.

Most reactions to insect bites are mild, causing little more than an annoying itching or stinging sensation and mild swelling that disappears within a day or so. A delayed reaction to a bite may cause fever, hives, painful joints and swollen glands. You may experience both the immediate and the delayed reactions from the same insect bite or sting. 

Bites from bees, wasps, hornets, yellow jackets and fire ants are typically the most troublesome. On the other hand, bites from mosquitoes, ticks, biting flies, ants, scorpions and some spiders also can cause reactions. For mild reactions follow these treatment tips from your dermatologist:

• Move to a safe area
• Remove the stinger (if it is stuck in your skin)
• Apply a cold pack to reduce swelling and pain
• Apply a topical cream
• Take an antihistamine

For severe reactions to bug bites and stings, your dermatologist recommends calling 911 immediately if the following symptoms occur:

• Difficulty breathing
• Swelling of the lips or throat
• Faintness
• Dizziness
• Confusion
• Rapid heartbeat
• Hives
• Nausea, cramps and vomiting

Your dermatologist is available to provide topical cream and other treatments for stings to help alleviate pain and itching. Contact your dermatologist for more information on how to properly care for your skin when an insect bites or stings you.