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insect bites
While insect bites or stings alone may be harmless, in some cases they may cause an allergic reaction.
Most of the time, insect bites and stings are merely itchy annoyances. However, understanding the potential reactions is important, especially for children or those with allergies.
Children: Young children may not be able to describe symptoms accurately, and their smaller bodies can react more strongly.
People with known allergies: If you or your child have a history of insect sting allergies, be extra cautious. An allergist can provide guidance and potentially allergy shots.
Basic care: Wash the bite, apply a cold compress, and use over-the-counter creams or oral antihistamines for itch relief.
Watch for worsening symptoms: If swelling spreads, breathing is difficult, or you see signs of anaphylaxis, seek medical help immediately.
DIAGNOSIS FIRST
A doctor checks symptoms, uses tools to see inside the ear.
MILD CASES
Often clear up on their own. Over-the-counter pain relief can help.
SEVERE CASES
Especially with fever, antibiotics might be prescribed.
Don't Ignore Ear Infections
Untreated ear infections can damage the eardrum or even lead to hearing loss.
Night Watch Pediatric Urgent Care: Here When Ear Trouble Strikes!
- Normal Reactions: Most people experience localized pain, redness, swelling, and itching at the bite site. This usually subsides within a few hours or days.
- Large Local Reactions: Sometimes, the swelling and redness can be more severe, extending beyond the immediate bite area. While uncomfortable, this is still usually harmless.
- Allergic Reactions: People with insect sting allergies can have more serious reactions:
- Hives, itching, and swelling spreading beyond the bite site.
- Difficulty breathing, wheezing, tightness in the chest.
- Dizziness, nausea, a weak or rapid pulse.
- Severe Allergic Reaction (Anaphylaxis): This is a medical emergency, requiring immediate attention. If there are signs of breathing problems, severe swelling, or loss of consciousness, call 911 or your local emergency number.
Children: Young children may not be able to describe symptoms accurately, and their smaller bodies can react more strongly.
People with known allergies: If you or your child have a history of insect sting allergies, be extra cautious. An allergist can provide guidance and potentially allergy shots.
Basic care: Wash the bite, apply a cold compress, and use over-the-counter creams or oral antihistamines for itch relief.
Watch for worsening symptoms: If swelling spreads, breathing is difficult, or you see signs of anaphylaxis, seek medical help immediately.
- Allergies
- Colds and flu
- Bacteria or viruses not fully cleared by the body
- Leftover fluid in the ear
DIAGNOSIS FIRST
A doctor checks symptoms, uses tools to see inside the ear.
MILD CASES
Often clear up on their own. Over-the-counter pain relief can help.
SEVERE CASES
Especially with fever, antibiotics might be prescribed.
Don't Ignore Ear Infections
Untreated ear infections can damage the eardrum or even lead to hearing loss.
Night Watch Pediatric Urgent Care: Here When Ear Trouble Strikes!
