However, untreated impetigo can cause cellulitis and kidney issues. Cellulitis can usually be treated with antibiotics. Untreated or severe cellulitis can cause blood poisoning.
Lymphangitis is an inflammation of the lymphatic vessels, which connect lymph nodes and move lymph throughout your body. These vessels are part of your immune system. Lymphangitis can be treated with antibiotics. You may be able to treat minor infections at home with over-the-counter OTC antibiotic ointments. You should see a doctor if:. In the beginning of an infection, you may be able to treat it at home.
But if the infection gets worse, you may need medical treatment. Try the following for relief:. In many cases, an infected bug bite will need an antibiotic. You may be able to try over-the-counter antibiotic ointment first if your symptoms are not severe or systemic such as a fever. If abscesses develop because of the infection, you may need minor surgery to drain them. This is usually an outpatient procedure. An infection is just one reason to see a doctor after an insect bite or sting. You should also see a doctor if after a bite or sting if you:.
We can ease your discomfort, prescribe antibiotics for infection, and rule out the worst-case scenarios following an unfortunate run-in with the offending bug. Need to get checked out after work? Our Aurora urgent care center has longer hours than some of other clinics and stands ready to treat a wide range of nasty bug bites. Some of the worst but bites and stings may present an immediate life-threatening danger for which you should go to the ER. These reactions are likely to occur between the bite itself and one hour post-contact and include one or more of the following symptoms.
These symptoms represent a range of dangerous reactions such as anaphylaxis, cellulitis, and lymphangitis. Ticks are small — even as small as a poppy seed — so careful detection is key to removing them and preventing complications.
You can photograph the tick before removing it, or place it in a small container and freeze it after removal. Some ticks are known to carry disease, but not every tick bite requires a trip to the doctor. Monteiro explains:. Some studies indicate it could be less than 24 hours, which is why doctors recommend checking your skin for ticks every day.
Ticks tend to be found in areas with tall grass, bushes, and lots of trees and bite only when you brush up against the plants they're climbing. To prevent tick bites:. News and Stories. How to care for a typical sting Remove the stinger, if there is one, by gently scraping it out with something like the edge of a credit card. Don't use tweezers, because that can push more venom into you.
Use a cold pack or cool cloth to reduce swelling and pain. Medications to consider: an antihistamine to keep the swelling isolated and a topical anti-itch cream or spray. When to see a doctor Stings can create an allergic reaction. Seek immediate medical attention if a sting causes: Substantial swelling beyond the site of the sting or swelling in the face, eyes, lips, tongue, or throat Dizziness or trouble breathing or swallowing You feel ill after being stung 10 times or more at once If a sting becomes seriously infected, contact your primary care doctor.
Avoid floral prints and bright colors; they can look like flowers that attract the insects. Wear closed-toed shoes. When eating outside, keep food covered and garbage contained. Avoid the sweet drinks these insects like. If beverages aren't in a sealed container, look before you sip. Stay calm if you notice a bee, wasp, or yellow jacket nearby.
Aggressive movements can lead to stings, because the insect is defending itself. Instead, walk away slowly. Do not jump into water, because bees are known to hover. How to care for a typical bite Clean the wounds with soap and water. Keep them clean until healed to prevent infection. Here are some of the most common bugs you should protect yourself from: Bees Wasps Mosquitos Spiders especially brown recluse and black widows.
Blister beetles Fleas Chiggers Conenose bugs Tarantulas Centipedes Ticks Fire ants Most big bites will cause an allergic reaction, and you may experience redness or hives. When to Seek Treatment Most bug bites can be treated at home by using hydrocortisone cream and antihistamines, which will help to reduce swelling and itching.
Consider visiting a health clinic if you experience any of the following: A scab forms on your bite. You were stung or bitten multiple times in a short period of time.
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