Insect bites and stings

Insects are everywhere! They can bite at any time of the day but bites are more likely to occur in the evening so lots of repellant is needed after sunset.

	Symptoms
	Insect bites and stings may be painful but they are rarely serious. Irritation and itching on and around the bite A small itchy lump may develop A small fluid filled lump which is very itchy may also appear
	Treatment
	Antihistamine tablets can be obtained from the chemist without prescription (or from your surgery if you are a dispensing patient) and will usually relieve most symptoms Apply a cold compress to bites and stings. Bee stings should be scraped away rather than 'plucked' in order to avoid squeezing the contents of the venom sac into the wound Ticks can be removed by covering with vaseline which blocks their breathing holes causing them to drop off In some cases, antibiotics may be needed
	Seek medical advice
	Seek advice from your healthcare professional if... you are stung in the mouth the sting cannot be removed you have a known allergy to bites and stings
	Recommended web sites
	Bites An article from the BBC about different kinds of bites and stings Insect stings and bites A leaflet from Patient UK offering further advice on how to treat bites and stings