INSECT BITE

 

Symptoms | When to call | Homecare Advice

 

WHEN TO CALL YOUR DOCTOR FOR INSECT BITES

Call 911 Now (you may need an ambulance) If

  • Passed out
  • Difficult to awaken or acting confused
  • Wheezing or difficulty breathing
  • Hoarseness, cough or tightness in the throat or chest
  • Swollen tongue or difficulty swallowing
  • Previous severe allergic reaction same insect bite. (not just hives or swelling) (Note:  anaphylaxis usually starts within 20 minutes, and always by 2 hours following a bite.)
  • Use First Aid Advice for Anaphylaxis

Call Your Doctor Now (night or day) If

  • You feel weak or very sick

  • Hives or swelling elsewhere on the body
  • Fever and bite looks infected (i.e. spreading redness, pus)
  • Severe pain persists for more than 2 hours after pain medicine

Call Your Doctor Within 24 Hours (between 9 am and 4 pm) If

  • You think you need to be seen
  • New redness or red streak occurs around the bite after the first 24hours
  • Scab that looks infected (drains pus or increases in size) not improved after applying antibiotic ointment for 2 days

Call Your Doctor During Weekday Office Hours If

  • You have other questions or concerns

Self Care at Home If

  • Normal insect bite and you don't think you need to be seen

Disclaimer: This information is not intended be a substitute for professional medical advice. It is provided for educational purposes only. You assume full responsibility for how you choose to use this information.

Adult SelfCareNavigator. Copyright © 2000-2004 David Thompson, M.D. FACEP

Reviewed 8/2004

Revised 8/2004

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