Bug Bites Treatment

Bugs are rather irritating parasites that live on human blood. There are various types of bugs and they transmute depending on climate and environment. Some of the most common bugs are bed bugs. However, there are other kinds as well that you could encounter no matter where you go. While not all bug bites cause serious side effects, infections and allergies can result when bug bites are not treated immediately. Timely treatment is essential to ensure that effects are kept minimal. Of course, prevention of bug infestation is very important. Cleanliness is a bug deterrent. Therefore, ensure that you keep your surroundings clean and avail of regular pest control services to eradicate bugs, if you live in a neighborhood where they thrive. Read on to know more about bug bites treatment.

How To Treat Bug Bites

If the victim suffers from severe allergic reactions such as extreme swelling, heart palpitations, chest pain, shortness of breath, weakness or dizziness, go to the emergency room.
For cases, which need to be handled in an emergency room, ensure that the dead bug is taken along (most bugs die after biting a person). This should be done in order to administer bud-specific treatment, since different bug venoms can be controlled differently. When taking the bug along, do not pick it up. Most dead bugs still have venom on them. It is more advisable to scoop up the bug.
Cleanse the area with a mild antibacterial soap. This will get rid of any excess venom, which could sink into the skin later.
Apply an ice pack to the infected area. Keep it in for 20 minutes and then give a gap of 20 minutes before applying it again. This will help prevent tissue damage. Application of ice will also prevent blood from flowing near the bite and will prevent the bug venom from spreading through the body.
Disinfect the bitten area. This could be done by dabbing a ball of cotton wool on the skin, after applying witch hazel or alcohol, on the cotton wool. White vinegar could also be used, since it is very effective in easing itching apart from disinfecting the area.
Antibiotic ointments can be applied on the disinfected area. These ointments will help the bite heal faster and will prevent infection at the same time. A calamine lotion will help soothe the bitten spot.
There are sting swabs available in the market, which help alleviate pain. Ibuprofen and Acetaminophen are good pain relievers. In case of itching, an antihistamine can be taken to ease the itching and prevent swelling. However, keep in mind that pills should be taken as directed on the packaging and preferably under medical supervision, except in extreme emergencies.
Don’t scratch the bitten area, no matter how strong the temptation to do so, will be. Scratching will cause more discomfort, and will also cause bug venom to spread.

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