I managed to hold out until May to get my first mosquito bites. Unfortunately, the little pests managed to chomp me in the armpit — a somewhat embarrassing place to try to scratch! Mild reactions to insect bites can be quickly and easily treated at home.
Deal with the bite itself as soon as possible:
- If a stinger (like from a bee or wasp) remains in the bite site, try to pull it out as soon as possible! Use a flat knife or other flat edge to scrape out the stinger; venom may remain in the stinger and can be squeezed out with too much manipulation.
- Wrap powdered charcoal in a clean cloth and wet it, then apply it to the bite site. This will help neutralize any toxins in the bite and keep pain and swelling down.
- A clay pack or mud pack can help draw out venom.
- An enzyme-based meat tenderizer can break down the proteins in insect venom. Apply as soon as possible for the best effect.
- Wash the bite site with soap and plenty of water. Any dirt or bacteria near the wound can lead to infection.
Deal with the pain and swelling:
- Apply cold compresses or ice packs to ease pain.
- Calamine lotion will ease the itch.
- Try an over-the-counter pain reliever for the swelling and pain.
- Take an antihistamine if you develop a large local reaction — like if several mosquito bites together swell up into a huge welt.
- Try elevating the limb (if the bite is on an arm or leg) to keep swelling down.
- Use anesthetic creams or ointments to ease pain and itching.
If you experience a severe reaction to an insect bite, symptoms can include labored breathing, difficulty swallowing, severe swelling, and even shock. A severe reaction usually needs a doctor’s attention.