Bites & Stings

Did You Know?
82%
(Reference: survey of 1000 people, 2018, data on file)
In a survey, the most feared insects included:










(Reference: survey of 1000 people, 2018, data on file)


How Bites Can Differ






Mosquitoes, Midges, Gnats & Fleas
Bites from these insects will usually cause a red, swollen lump to develop on the skin.


Horseflies
Horsefly bites can be painful and the bitten area of skin will usually be red and raised.


Bed Bugs
If you notice itchy red bumps in straight lines on the face, neck, hands or arms, these could have been caused by a bed bug.
Their bite isn’t usually painful – but the red bumps may last for several days.
If you haven’t been bitten by a bed bug before, it is possible you may not see any symptoms at all!


Ticks
A tick bite can cause a red, swollen lump to develop on the skin, or a rash that looks like a bullseye.
It isn’t easy to know if you have been bitten by a tick, as the bite isn’t always painful. If you discover a tick attached to your skin, you must remove it immediately.
Ticks can transmit a potentially serious infection called Lyme disease in the UK. If you develop flu-like symptoms after a tick bite, contact your GP.
How to remove a tick
- Use clean tweezers to take hold of the tick as close to the skin’s surface as possible. This will give you the best chance of avoiding leaving all or some of the tick embedded in your skin.
- Next, pull upwards keeping a steady pressure.
- Once the tick is removed, make sure you clean the area and your hands thoroughly.
Do not try to crush or destroy the tick with your fingers.
Did you know?
Please note Anthisan is not intended for use on infected insect bites.
What is the difference between a bite and a sting?
A wasp, bee or hornet sting often leaves a small mark where the stinger broke the skin.
Insect bites tend to be itchy.
What is nettle rash?
Bites and stings in children
Bites & Stings tips
With GP Dr. Kevin Barrett



What should I do if I get bitten or stung by an insect?
Other options for treating bites and stings include taking painkillers such as paracetamol or ibuprofen for pain, or a hydrocortisone cream for itching and swelling.
A small number of people can have an anaphylactic reaction, so if there is any mouth or tongue swelling, light-headedness or difficulty breathing then immediate medical attention is needed.
How do I know if a bite has become infected?
Are there ways to avoid being bitten or stung?
Do I need to treat children differently?
Other options for treating bites and stings include taking painkillers such as paracetamol or ibuprofen for pain, or a hydrocortisone cream for itching and swelling.
*Dr Kevin Barrett does not endorse any products or brands.
How Do I Know if My Insect Bite Is Infected?
Common indications the bite could be infected are increased pain, swelling and redness around the bite and or pus in or around the bite. If you are concerned that your bite might be infected, you should contact your doctor or pharmacist as soon as possible.
If you begin to experience dizziness, a swollen face or difficulties breathing, you should seek immediate medical treatment.
Anthisan is not intended for use on infected insect bites.


