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How do you treat a common bug bite?
There are many over-the-counter options for treating bug bites, whether or not they are directly marketed for that use. Generally speaking, the first step in treating a bug bite is washing the area with soap and water. A cold pack can be used to help reduce inflammation and can be especially useful in stings or spider bites. Several topical medications can be used to help with the itch: calamine, diphenhydramine, hydrocortisone, camphor or menthol, tea tree oil and pramoxine are all examples. Diphenhydramine (Benadryl®) can actually be used orally as well, but be aware that taking the tablets can cause drowsiness. Scratching at bug bites should be avoided, as this could cause a secondary infection. Symptoms generally resolve within days, but can last longer depending upon the person affected and the insect. If symptoms worsen, or signs of infection appear, see a physician.
What do you do if someone has a severe allergic reaction to a bite or sting?
Some individuals are highly allergic to bug bites or stings. The person might experience any of the following side effects: stomach cramping, diarrhea, hives, rapid heartbeat, dizziness, confusion, fainting episodes, shortness of breath, and swelling of the lips or throat. The first step is to call emergency personnel, and then assist the patient as much as possible while waiting for their arrival. If the person knows that they have an allergy of this type, often times they will carry epinephrine with them (Epipen®). This should be used as soon as possible. If the person can take something by mouth without choking on it, oral diphenhydramine can be given. The person should lie on their back with their feet elevated above their head. If the person is vomiting or at risk of choking, have them roll over to their side. Loosen any tight clothing and cover them with a blanket. Administer CPR if necessary.
What are chiggers?
The chiggers that plague humans are actually the larvae of certain species of mites. Most species prefer to live in low, damp areas with heavy vegetation; some will
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prefer drier climates. Contrary to some belief, chiggers do not burrow into the skin. Instead they attach to us using their mouth. To obtain nourishment, they must liquefy the skin and tissues in the area of the bite. They do this by injecting a fluid that dissolves the tissues, and it is this fluid that brings about a lot of the side effects we think of. Chiggers prefer to bite at the waist, ankles, knees and armpits, and can be washed off by lathering repeatedly with soap and water while in the shower. If undisturbed, they can remain attached for about 3 days.
What is the reaction to chigger bites, how do you treat it and how can you prevent them?
Typically, all that results from a chigger bite is a mild skin reaction. The fluids that they inject will cause welts that can last for up to two weeks. Itching will begin within 4 to 8 hours after the bite. The itching and inflammation can be treated with topical or oral agents (see "How do you treat a common bug bite?" above). In terms of prevention, there are several potential solutions. If a person is not allergic to sulfa-based drugs, sulfur powder can be dusted on the shoes and socks to ward them off. Bug repellants are also effective: products containing DEET can be used on the skin and clothing; any products containing permethrin can be used on the clothing only.
How do you treat a spider bite?
Presuming the spider is not venomous (see section below), spider bites are handled similarly to any other bug bite. Clean the area first with soap and water. A cool compress may be applied to reduce inflammation. Acetaminophen (Tylenol®) can be used to reduce mild symptoms (pain and mild fever); aspirin can also be used, but should be avoided in children.
What spiders are poisonous in this area?
Whenever a spider bite occurs, it is important to try to make a positive identification of the spider just in case it is a poisonous bite. There are two species indigenous to the southern United States that are actually venomous: the black widow and the brown recluse. Fortunately, both spiders have dis
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tinctive markings: the black widow is a black spider with a red hourglass shape on its belly; the brown recluse is a two-toned brown spider with a violin on its back (the base of the violin is at the head, the neck of the violin goes down its back). In northeastern Kansas and western Missouri, the brown recluse is much more common. Brown recluse bites will cause mild stinging initially that will progress into intense pain and local redness within eight hours. The site may develop a fluid-filled blister which will eventually slough off leaving a deep ulceration. Reactions vary from mild fever and rash to nausea and listlessness. Deaths are extremely rare, and much more common in children. Black widow bites will not feel very painful initially, if they are even noted at all, but within hours, intense pain and stiffness will occur, progressing to chills, nausea, vomiting and abdominal pain. In either case, mild symptoms may be treated at home, but it would be wise to contact a physician and let them know about the event.
For additional information about bug bites talk with your pharmacist or physician.
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