Insect bites can be uncomfortable, and in some cases, can be really dangerous. Finding bug bite remedies quickly and effectively can help minimize the side effects associated with being stung by an insect.

Common Symptoms of Bug Bites

Symptoms associated with bug bites will vary based on the type of bug that has caused the injury. The site of the injury will typically become red after a sting or a bite. This can be a benefit if you are attempting to treat your injury because it will make it easier to see where you have been bitten. The site of the bite may also become swollen, especially after the venom has started to take hold.

Bug bites may become itchy in the area that is red or swollen. This itchiness is usually temporary and will disappear after a few days. If you have been stung or bitten by a bug that draws blood such as a flea the site may become painful as well. This pain may become severe if you have been stung by a bug such as a wasp or fire ant.

How to Deal with Bug Bite

Step 1: Knowing what type of bug has bitten you will improve your chances of improving your condition quickly. If you saw the bug that stung or bit you but you are unfamiliar with it, do research on what it might be and what typical symptoms of a bite are. If you are in an area where more insects may be waiting or swarming, leave to avoid suffering further stings or bites.

Step 2: Once you are inside or in a safe location where you cannot suffer further injury, inspect the site of the sting to determine the extent of the damage. If it appears as though a stinger is lodged in the wound, it should be removed as quickly as possible. When the stinger is protruding, you can usually remove it with tweezers or a fine brush. For those that are further down into the skin, try to bring it to the surface by sticking a piece of tape to the infected area and gently pulling it away. Do not dig or scratch at the area to try to remove the stinger.

Step 3: As soon as you are sure that you have removed the offending matter, gently but thoroughly wash the area with soap and water. Use a gentle soap with limited perfumes and dyes so that you do not irritate the sensitive skin in this area further. If your wound is swollen or painful, you can apply ice to help relieve your symptoms. In some cases, ice may help relieve any itching that may be around the site. Try not to scratch at the bug bite as this can cause further injury while the skin is still raw from the bite. If the pain or swelling is severe, then take a pain reliever such as aspirin, ibuprofen or acetaminophen. Severe itching can be relieved by hydrocortisone creams, calamine lotion or allergy medication such as Benadryl.

Step 4: Some bug bite remedies can be used to relieve discomfort. Rubbing alcohol or antiseptic can be used to sterilize the area, though this may cause discomfort initially. Mix baking soda and water into a paste and apply it to the bite to help relieve itching. If swelling has lasted for several hours after the initial bite, elevate the area where the bite is located to help the swelling go down. Six hours after the initial bite occurred a warm compress can often take away the discomfort from the tender skin. You can also apply the following natural remedies on the affected area for swelling and itchiness:

• Honey
• Baking soda
• Lemon juice
• Tea bag
• Tea tree, lavender, and coconut oils

Serious Reactions

Those who are allergic to insect stings may develop more serious symptoms than others. If you begin to experience facial swelling, nausea, abdominal pain, difficulty breathing or a sudden drop in blood pressure, you may be experiencing a severe reaction to an insect bite. Patients with this condition may also faint, develop a rapid heartbeat, vomit or break out in hives. They may become confused about where they are or what is occurring around them or complain of dizziness.

If someone around you is showing signs that they are suffering from a severe reaction to an insect bite, bug bite remedies won't help, immediately check to see if they are carrying any medication such as an EpiPen that you can use to treat them. Inject this medication according to the instructions and massage the injection site for 10 seconds. Contact a doctor or emergency medical services for help once this medication has been administered. Cover this person with a blanket and loosen any tight clothing to help with circulation. Turn them on their side to help prevent choking if they become sick. Do not give this person anything to drink in case their throat is swelling. If it appears as though circulation has stopped or the person is not breathing, begin CPR treatments until help can arrive.