Symptoms of insect bites may include:
Pain, itching, or burning at the site of the bite
Redness or swelling around the bite
Formation of a small, raised bump or blister at the site of the bite
In some cases, more severe symptoms may occur, such as difficulty breathing or swelling of the lips, tongue, or throat
Symptoms of hives may include:
Raised, red, or white welts on the skin that may be itchy
Swelling around the eyes, lips, tongue, or throat
Difficulty breathing or swallowing
Red flags that may indicate a more serious condition include:
Multiple or severe insect bites that are painful, swollen, or oozing pus
Rapidly spreading hives
Difficulty breathing or swallowing
Feeling faint or dizzy
Applying a cool compress or taking a cool bath to relieve itching and swelling
Taking over-the-counter antihistamines to reduce itching and inflammation
Applying a topical cream or ointment, such as hydrocortisone cream, to reduce redness and itching
Avoiding scratching the affected area to prevent infection.
In severe cases or if the symptoms do not respond to self-care measures, referral to a healthcare provider may be necessary. They may recommend medical treatments such as:
Prescription-strength antihistamines or corticosteroids
Epinephrine injections in cases of severe allergic reactions
Antibiotics if an infection develops
Prevention measures include avoiding areas with high concentrations of insects, wearing protective clothing and insect repellent when outdoors, and being aware of any personal allergies that may trigger hives
