The Lone Star state is no stranger to insects and bugs—and getting bitten or stung can leave you with red, itching, swollen, or irritated skin.
The good news? Most insect bites and stings are harmless and will heal on their own.
However, it’s important to understand the signs and symptoms to know when you’re in the clear and when you might be dealing with something more serious, like an allergic reaction or infection.
Common Symptoms of Bites and Stings
Bites and stings from bees, wasps, spiders, ticks, and mosquitoes can happen anytime, but warmer weather increases your risk.
Here are the most common symptoms to watch for:
- Burning or aching pain
- Itching
- Raised spots
- Swelling at the site
These symptoms can range from mildly irritating to life-threatening—and can be especially dangerous for children, who may be more susceptible to severe allergic reactions due to their smaller bodies and developing immune systems.
If you or your child experiences any of the following signs of an allergic reaction after a sting or a bite, walk into the nearest Alamo City Urgent Care for prompt treatment:
- Swelling beyond the area of the sting or bite that does not go down within 30 to 60 minutes.
- Dizziness or a sharp drop in blood pressure.
- Hives that spread across the skin.
- Anaphylaxis, a potentially life-threatening reaction that can cause the body to go into shock.
- Loss of consciousness or cardiac arrest.
First Aid for Insect Bites and Stings
Here are a few things you can do at home to alleviate your discomfort and lower your risk of infection:
- Clean the bite or sting area with warm running water and a mild soap.
- Carefully remove the stinger if necessary.
- Apply a cold compress to reduce swelling.
- Take an over-the-counter antihistamine or apply a topical hydrocortisone cream to reduce inflammation and itching.
- Avoid scratching or squeezing to alleviate pain, as this could increase your risk of infection.
Insect Bites and Stings Treatment at Alamo City Urgent Care
If you are experiencing severe side effects from an insect sting or are worried about a possible infection, walk into your nearest Alamo City Urgent Care for fast, effective relief. Our medical team is ready to provide the high-quality care and treatment you need to feel better quickly.
Walk into your nearest location or book ahead to save time.
