Infected insect bites
Insect bites can be itchy and painful. Rarely do they become infected, but it can happen and needs treatment if so.If you think your insect bite has become infected, you can speak to one of our friendly pharmacists for free over secure video call.
What are the symptoms of an infected insect bite?
Most insect bites are painful at the site of the bite or sting, and you may find you’ve got a small swollen, itchy lump too. If you’re mildly allergic, you might also find the area around the bite is also more swollen.
Symptoms of an infected bug bite may include
- Swelling
- Pain or tenderness
- Fluid coming from the area
- Red lines or ‘tracks’ spreading out from the bite site
- A high temperature and feeling generally unwell.
How do I treat an infected insect bite?
Treatment at home
- Press an ice pack wrapped in a clean cloth on the bite for around 20 minutes to reduce swelling
- Take painkillers
- Take antihistamines if it’s very itchy and swollen
- Try a hydrocortisone cream – this also helps reduce itching and swelling
- Ultimately if you think it’s infected, the best thing to do is to speak to one of our pharmacists.
How our pharmacists can help
- Our pharmacists can advise on which antihistamines, painkillers, and possibly steroid creams to use
- If the bite appears infected, they can prescribe antibiotics delivered straight to your door.
If you’re worried about your insect bite and think it might be infected, book a free secure video consultation with one of our friendly pharmacists. We can work around your schedule. And we’ll issue and deliver any prescriptions straight to your door within 24 hours (nationwide), or same day (London).
Book a free consultation