Bug bites are a common nuisance, especially during warmer months when mosquitoes, ants, and other insects are more active. While most bites are harmless and resolve on their own, some can develop into something more serious - an infection. Infection can occur when bacteria enter the broken skin either through the bite itself or from scratching it excessively. Recognizing the signs early can help prevent complications and lead to faster healing.
If you have an infected bug bite, AFC Urgent Care Burlington can help. Our walk-in urgent care clinic in Burlington, MA, offers same-day care with no appointment necessary for minor conditions like infected bug bites. Walk in today, or save your spot online in advance using the button below.
How to Tell If an Insect Bite Is Infected
Bug bites often will resolve on their own with time. However, if you excessively scratch at the bite site and break the skin, you’re opening a door for bacteria to enter your body and cause an infection. Not every itchy bump is cause for concern, but there are warning signs that an insect bite might be infected. The most common indicators include:
- Redness that keeps spreading: It's normal for a bug bite to be a little red, but if the redness keeps expanding or forms a streak moving away from the bite, it could be a sign of infection.
- Swelling and warmth: If the area feels hot to the touch or becomes increasingly swollen rather than going down, that may suggest inflammation from an infection.
- Pain or tenderness: Mild discomfort is expected, but throbbing pain or sharp aches could indicate the bite has become infected.
- Pus or drainage: Any yellow or green discharge from the bite site is a red flag that bacteria are present.
- Fever or chills: A systemic response like fever is a sign that the infection may be spreading beyond the skin.
How to Quickly Heal a Bug Bite At Home
If you’re bitten by a bug and are facing a red and itchy welt, it is important not to scratch the bite. Scratching at the bite is tempting, but breaking the skin could lead to an infection forming. Instead, apply ice packs on and off throughout the day to numb the area. OTC anti-itch creams can also be used to help control itching and reduce swelling. Most bug bites go away on their own, however, if you notice signs of an infection, it is time to seek medical care.
When to Seek Medical Treatment for an Infected Bug Bite
You should contact a healthcare provider if the bite continues to worsen after a few days, especially if you notice:
- Increasing pain and swelling
- Red streaks moving away from the bite
- Pus, blistering, or foul-smelling drainage
- Fever, chills, or swollen lymph nodes
- No improvement with home treatment after 48 hours
If you're experiencing signs of an infected bug bite, don't delay care. Infections can progress quickly and lead to more severe health problems if not adequately treated.
Visit AFC Urgent Care Burlington for Same-Day Bug Bite Treatment
If you have a bug bite that is showing signs of being infected, you should seek medical care. At AFC Burlington, our clinic is equipped to handle minor infections and can help prevent further complications during the healing process. Our walk-in clinic provides care 7 days a week from 8am to 8pm, and we never require patients to schedule an appointment in advance.
If you need rapid same-day care for an infected bug bite, you can count on AFC Burlington. Our clinic works with most medical insurance plans, and we have affordable rates for patients paying out-of-pocket for their care. Walk into the clinic today, or give us a call to learn more at (781) 270-4700.
