How to Treat a Horsefly Bite

Horseflies are small, but their bites can be extremely painful. In extreme cases, their nips can cause dizziness and weakness, depending upon where the bite occurred. Pale pink to red swelling may also appear around your eyes and lips. You can avoid these reactions with some quick first aid.

Difficulty:

Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• Soap
• Water
• Antihistamine tablet
• Topical hydrocortisone cream
• Gauze bandage

1. Cleanse the area of the bite with soap and water. Pat the area dry with a clean towel. Horsefly bites may be infectious, and you must clean them immediately.

2. Apply a topical hydrocortisone cream to the bite to reduce the swelling and itching. Take an antihistamine tablet to reduce the discomfort.

3. Cover the area loosely with a gauze bandage.

4. Watch for additional symptoms. Some people may experience severe allergic reactions to a horsefly bite. If wheezing or any other breathing difficulties develop, call 911 immediately. If you notice a severe rash or blistering, wheezing, swollen glands, high fever or flu-like symptoms within two days of the bite, seek medical attention.

Tips & Warnings

• If you know you will be in an area horseflies inhabit, wear long pants and long sleeved shirts.