Sandy Crest Medical Centre - Health Tips
Insect Bites
A minor insect bite or sting may cause a little
swelling and itching. The site may be painful for a while.
Mosquitoes, biting flies, and some spiders usually cause mild
reactions. Yellow jackets, honeybees, paper wasps, and fire ants
cause more severe sting reactions.
A severe allergic reaction to a bite happens
within minutes of the bite. The symptoms may include:
• severe swelling of the lips, tongue, or throat
• trouble breathing
• nausea, cramping, diarrhea, or vomiting
• hives
• dizziness
• loss of consciousness.
Call 511 and make your way to an emergency room
immediately if any of these symptoms develop. Some insects
especially mosquitoes carry diseases and should be avoided.
Eliminate potential breeding sites. Keep the body covered; wear long
clothing and use insect repellent where biting insects are rampant.
Don't use more repellent than recommended in the package directions.
Repellent products containing either DEET or picaridin have been
proven to provide longer-lasting protection than others. Observe the
wound for any signs of infection – e.g. worsening pain, swelling,
warmth or redness. These may need further treatment.
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