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Bites from some insects can also cause illnesses, such as Lyme disease from ticks, scabies from mites, and malaria from mosquitoes in certain parts of the world.
The main symptoms of an insect bite or sting are:
The lump may look red. It may be more difficult to see on black or brown skin, but you should be able to feel it.
You can often treat an insect bite or sting without seeing a GP.
If anything is left on or in your skin, the first thing you need to do is remove it carefully.
If there's nothing in your skin, or you've removed it, wash your skin with soap and water to help lower the chance of infection.
The bite or sting should get better in a few days. There are some things you can do to ease your symptoms.
put an ice pack wrapped in a cloth, or a clean cloth soaked in cold water, on the bite or sting for at least 20 minutes, if it's swollen
keep the area raised if you can
take painkillers such as paracetamol or ibuprofen if the sting is painful
use antihistamines to relieve any itching (but do not use antihistamine cream if you had caterpillar hairs on your skin)
use a hydrocortisone cream to reduce itching and swelling
do not scratch the bite or sting, as it could get infected
do not use home remedies such as bicarbonate of soda to treat the bite or sting
You or your child aged 1 year or older has an insect bite or sting and:
A pharmacist can recommend treatments, such as antihistamines and steroid creams, and give the same antibiotics as a GP if the bite or sting is infected. They can also give advice or direct you to other medical help if you need it.
You or your child has been bitten or stung by an insect and:
You can call 111 or get help from 111 online. Call 111 to get advice about a child under 5 years old.
You or the person who's unwell may also have a rash that's swollen, raised or itchy.
These can be signs of a serious allergic reaction and may need immediate treatment in hospital.
