Insect and Spider Bites and Stings
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- Insect and spider bites and stings treatment
- Nutritions and supplements for insect and spider bites and stings control
- Insect and spider bites and stings herbal treatment
- Aromatherapy treatment for insect and spider bites and stings
- Homeopathy treatment for insect and spider bites and stings
Bites and stings from most common insects, such as mosquitoes, gnats, fleas, flies, and ants, as well as from common spiders, can cause itchy welts on arms and legs. A bee, wasp, or hornet sting can cause swelling and sting at the site. Usually, bites and stings are no more than an annoyance and cause only slight local swelling and irritation.
There are exceptions, however, such as a bite from a venomous spider like the brown recluse or black widow spider, or a severe allergic reaction to a bee sting. A bite from a tiny deer tick may cause a large circular lesion that progress into a rash of small round lesions. The deer tick is the insect responsible for transmitting Lyme disease, and the characteristic rash is often the first sign of that illness.
If you are stung by a bee, wasp, or hornet, or bitten by an insect you suspect may be poisonous (such as a black widow or brown recluse spider), emergency medical treatment may be necessary. If you know you are allergic to bee venom, seek immediate medical care in the event of a sting. At any time, if you develop respiratory symptoms, such as wheezing or difficulty breathing, have someone take you immediately to the emergency room of the nearest hospital. People rarely have a problem with a first bee sting. However, if you have a family history of allergies, or if you exhibit a strong reaction to a first bee sting, you may be more likely to develop a serious allergic response after a later incident.
General recommendations for insect and spider bites and stings
- An old standby for treating minor bites and sting that cause swelling is to mix 2 teaspoons of baking soda and 2 teaspoons of Epsom salts with just enough water to make a paste, and apply this mixture directly to the affected area. Allow the paste to remain in place for twenty to thirty minutes. Often, a single application results in noticeable improvement.
- If you have a severe allergy to bites or stings, wear a Medic Alert bracelet. Should you suffer a severe reaction, the information the bracelet carries will help ensure you get prompt, appropriate treatment. Also ask your doctor for a prescription for emergency medication for quick administration.
- If you are prone to stings, it may be worthwhile to invest in The Extractor, a device that can be used to extract venom from a bite or sting. It is available in many camping and outdoor equipment stores or directly through the manufacturer, Sawyer Products.
- Sweating increases the discomfort of most skin irritations. Try to keep cool and dry.
Preventive measures for insect and spider bites and stings
- There are many commercial insect repellents sold over the counter. Deet (diethyl toluamide) is generally considered the most effective, although it is potentially quite toxic. Read and follow package directions carefully. Be aware that these formulas may not be safe for children.
- Citronella and pennyroyal are safe, natural repellents that may be applied to the skin. Oils of citronella and pennyroyal are usually available in health-food stores.
- Garlic helps to repel insects. Take the equivalent of 500 milligrams of fresh garlic twice a day for three days before a wilderness outing and throughout the trip.
- Do not chase bees, wasps, or hornets. If you spot a nest built by one of these stinging insects, stay away from it.
- Treatment for insect and spider bites and stings : This section provides information about treatments that are most effective for curing insect and spider bites and stings.
- Insect and spider bites and stings nutritions and supplements : This section provides comprehensive list of nutritional supplements for insect and spider bites and stings.
- Herbal treatment for insect and spider bites and stings : This section focuses on various traditional herbal treatments used to cure insect and spider bites and stings.
- Insect and spider bites and stings aromatherapy treatment: This section provides information about essential oils which are helpful to cure insect and spider bites and stings.
- Insect and spider bites and stings homeopathy treatment: It provides information about homeopathic medicines required for curing insect and spider bites and stings.