How to Prevent Or Treat Bites And Stings From Insects And Spiders

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By billips
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A scorpion showing the familiar stinger.

Some insect bites are merely annoying while others may be uncomfortable or even dangerous. Usually the reaction is only in the area of the puncture and may cause itching, slight swelling or minor pain which is of brief duration. The danger is when the venom spreads to other areas of the body and begins to affect organs other than the skin.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Step 1

The familiar mosquito having a meal.

Avoid the sources of stings and bites.
.....When in insect infested areas, avoid dark clothing or flowery prints as these seem to attract bees.
.....Do not use perfumes or colognes when you are outdoors as these seem to attract stinging bees, wasps, and mosquitoes.
.....Use an insect repellent to ward off both insects and spiders. Use according to the products directions and wash off when you return indoors.
.....Protect infants with mosquito netting. Do not use insect repellents on infants.
.....When hiking or working in brushy areas, that may harbor biting bugs, wear long sleeves and long pants.
.....Cut back the brush from around your home and get rid of any sources of standing water.
.....When camping, check your clothing and equipment often for biting spiders and insects.
Step 2

Bees and wasps may sting.

Treat a bite or sting immediately. First wash it with soap and water to prevent infection.
.....If there is a stinger, remove it by scraping it out or simply flicking it with a finger nail. Do not squeeze the skin to get it out or you may spread the venom even more.
.....Apply cold packs to the puncture area of a bee or wasp sting to relieve the pain. You can also try a poultice of baking soda or meat tenderizer(unseasoned).
.....A little wet salt will stop the itching of a mosquito bite.
.....Try not to scratch itching bites as this can lead to infection.
.....Never break blisters caused by bites as this can also lead to infection.
.....Oral antihistamines will help with mild pain, itching and swelling. Calamine lotion or hydrocortisone creams may also help for localized skin reactions. Consult your doctor for one appropriate for you age and condition.
.....If a healthy person is stung by a scorpion, in addition to washing with soap and water, apply cold compresses 10 minutes off and ten minutes on. If a limb is stung, elevate it to the level of the heart and watch for other symptoms.
.....If an infant or elderly person is stung by a scorpion go immediately to the emergency department.
.....If you are bitten by a Black widow, Brown Recluse, or Hobo spider, immediately apply ice and call your doctor. Never apply a tourniquet to bites or stings.
Step 3

Open sore caused by the bite of a Brown Recluse Spider.

Be aware that some bites can be highly dangerous.
.....The bite of a Black Widow spider may cause chills, fever, nausea and severe cramps.
.....The bite of a Brown Recluse spider or Hobo spider can cause intense pain and the blister that develops may turn into a large open sore. The bite of these two spiders can cause chills, nausea, vomiting and severe headaches. See a doctor immediately.
.....The sting of a Scorpion may cause blurred vision, numbness or tingling in the limbs and face and roving movements in the eye. If these symptoms occur, go immediately to the nearest emergency department.
.....Even if your symptoms are not severe, if the reaction to a bite is causing you any concern, it is advisable to seek medical attention, especially so for infants and the elderly.
Step 4

The familiar bulls eye pattern caused by a tick bite.

Understand that some insects carry the potential for disease.
.....The bite of a MOSQUITOES may cause, West Nile Virus, Encephalitis, or Malaria.
.....The bite of a TICK may cause Lyme Disease or Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever.
.....Spiders do not carry diseases.
Step 5

Anyone, who has had an allergic reaction, should carry and know how to use, an Epi pen.

Be prepared in the eventuality that you or someone you know my be highly allergic to insect venom.
.....A person who is suffering from an allergic reaction to insect venom will exhibit some or all of the fallowing symptoms: difficulty breathing, wheezing, swelling around the face, lips or tongue, severe swelling around the puncture itself,pale or clammy skin, confusion, faintness, dizziness, or rapid pulse,
.....If you know or suspect that this may be the case, you should take that person immediately to an emergency facility. They should, in the future, always have on hand an Epi Pen. This pen contains a measured dose of epinephrine. Discuss this with your physician and learn how to use the syringe.
.....Even very young children should have on their person, and know how to use, their Epi Pen.