First Aid for Insect Bites and Stings

ByJanis Updated

What Are Insect Bites and Stings?

An insect bite happens when an insect pierces the skin and injects saliva, which can trigger an immune response. Stings occur when insects inject venom through a stinger. Mosquitoes, fleas, bedbugs, and ticks typically bite, while bees, wasps, hornets, and ants sting.

For most people, these reactions are limited and mild. However, in some cases, the bite or sting can cause infection, allergic reactions, or symptoms of vector-borne diseases like Lyme disease or malaria.

Common Symptoms of Bites and Stings

Most insect bites or stings produce symptoms such as:

  • Redness and warmth at the site
  • Itching or minor pain
  • Swelling of the surrounding area
  • A small raised bump or welt
  • A visible stinger (in the case of bees)

Symptoms typically last a few hours to a few days. However, some reactions may be delayed or develop over time depending on the person’s immune response and the type of insect involved.

What You Can Do at Home

For most mild reactions, follow these steps:

1. Move to a safe area. Leave the place where the bite or sting occurred to prevent further exposure.

2. Remove the stinger if present. If stung by a bee, scrape the stinger out gently using a credit card or fingernail. Avoid using tweezers, which may squeeze more venom into the skin.

3. Wash the area. Clean the bite or sting site with soap and water to prevent infection.

4. Apply a cold compress. Use a clean cloth with ice or a cold pack wrapped in a towel for 10–20 minutes to reduce swelling and pain.

5. Elevate the limb. If the bite is on an arm or leg and swelling occurs, elevate the area above heart level to reduce inflammation.

6. Apply topical treatments. Use over-the-counter anti-itch creams or ointments like hydrocortisone, calamine lotion, or a paste of baking soda and water.

7. Take antihistamines if needed. Oral antihistamines such as loratadine or cetirizine can reduce itching and mild allergic symptoms.

8. Use pain relievers. Acetaminophen or ibuprofen can help ease pain or inflammation if the area is particularly sore.

Monitor the site over the next 24–48 hours for signs of infection or worsening symptoms.

Signs It Could Be Serious

While most insect reactions are minor, seek medical advice if you notice any of the following:

  • Redness or swelling that spreads beyond the bite or sting site
  • Pus, yellow drainage, or warmth around the area (signs of infection)
  • Fever, chills, or body aches
  • Red streaks extending from the site
  • Joint pain or stiffness near the bite
  • Tingling, numbness, or weakness
  • Dizziness or unusual fatigue

These symptoms could indicate a secondary infection, systemic reaction, or a more serious allergic response.

When to Seek Emergency Help

Call 911 or go to the emergency room immediately if the person experiences:

  • Trouble breathing or wheezing
  • Swelling of the lips, tongue, throat, or face
  • Chest tightness, rapid heartbeat, or fainting
  • Hives spreading across the body
  • Vomiting or diarrhea shortly after the sting
  • Signs of shock such as pale skin, confusion, or loss of consciousness
  • A child is stung by a scorpion or bitten by a potentially venomous spider

These may be signs of anaphylaxis, a life-threatening allergic reaction that requires immediate intervention. While waiting for emergency responders:

  • Ask if the person has an epinephrine autoinjector and assist them in using it.
  • Have them lie down and loosen tight clothing.
  • Cover them with a blanket to maintain body temperature.
  • Do not give anything to eat or drink.
  • If vomiting occurs, turn the person on their side to prevent choking.
  • Begin CPR if they stop breathing or lose consciousness.

When to Call Your Doctor

Schedule a doctor’s visit if:

  • Swelling or redness worsens after 48 hours.
  • You’re unsure what bit or stung the person (e.g., spider or tick).
  • The bite occurred in a region where insect-borne diseases are common.
  • You have underlying conditions like diabetes or a weakened immune system.
  • Reactions are frequent or increasingly severe.

The doctor may recommend antibiotics, a tetanus booster, or referral for allergy testing if needed.

Chronic or Recurrent Reactions

If you or your child experiences repeated or escalating reactions to bites or stings:

  • Keep a detailed record of reactions and timing.
  • Talk to an allergist about allergy testing or immunotherapy.
  • Ask your provider if you should carry an epinephrine autoinjector or antihistamines as preventive measures

Prevention Tips

Minimize your chances of being bitten or stung with these precautions:

  • Wear long-sleeved shirts and pants in wooded or grassy areas.
  • Avoid strong perfumes and brightly colored clothing outdoors.
  • Use insect repellents with DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus.
  • Keep food and sugary drinks covered when eating outside.
  • Do not walk barefoot in grass or gardens.
  • Check for ticks and bites after hiking or outdoor play.
  • Seal screens, windows, and doors at home.
  • Shake out clothing, shoes, and towels before use.

If you have a history of severe allergic reactions, talk to your doctor about carrying an emergency action kit.

Health Writer

Janis's areas of expertise include nutrition, exercise, stress management, and mental health. She is passionate about educating and empowering people to take control of their health and make positive changes that can last a lifetime. Janis believes that small, sustainable changes are the key to long-term success, and she works with her clients to develop personalized plans that fit their individual needs and lifestyles.