If you’re outside and are accidentally stung or bitten by an insect, it may make you feel panicked. In most cases, insect bites are nothing to worry about and will go away on their own with time. However, there are rare cases where you can be allergic to the insect that has bitten or stung you. Understanding what an allergic reaction looks like after an insect bite or sting is vital to ensure you seek proper care.
If you have a known allergy, or think you’re experiencing an allergic reaction, you should always call 911 for emergency care. However, if you’re stung or bitten by an insect and need same-day treatment, AFC Urgent Care Centennial can help. Our board-certified medical providers are available every day of the week to provide rapid, same-day treatment to patients of all ages for minor conditions like bug bites and stings. Simply walk into the clinic, or save your spot in advance online using the button below.
Normal Side Effects of an Insect Bite
If you’ve ever been enjoying your time outdoors in the summer, but suddenly feel a sharp pain on your skin, you probably were just bitten or stung by an insect. There are many different kinds of insects that humans can come into contact with during the summer months. Most commonly, mosquitoes and horseflies are out in full force in the summer and can pack a nasty bite. Similarly, bees and wasps are also easy to find in the warm months.
If you’re bitten or stung by an insect, don’t panic. Most insect bites and stings cause mild symptoms including pain at the bite site, redness and swelling. Itching around the bite is very normal, too. These side effects should resolve on their own within a couple of days with proper care.
Common Signs of an Insect Bite Induced Allergic Reaction
Although most insect bites and stings are harmless other than being uncomfortable when they occur, there are some individuals who may be allergic to an insect and have a reaction when bitten. The most common insect allergy is an allergy to honey bee stings, which can lead to anaphylaxis in only a few minutes after a sting.
If you don’t have a known allergy but experience any of the following symptoms, you should seek emergency medical care because you may be having an allergic reaction:
- Extreme swelling
- Intense pain
- Trouble breathing
- Wheezing
- Itchiness in the mouth or throat
- Feeling lightheaded
When to Seek Medical Care
If you have a known allergy and are bitten or stung by an insect you’re allergic to, you should call 911. Always be sure to carry your emergency EPIPen so you can administer if needed. Insect allergies are not very common; however, if you think you’re having an allergic reaction, you should be sure to seek urgent medical care. Allergic reactions can be life-threatening in some cases.
Walk Into AFC Centennial for Same-Day Insect Bite Care
Insect bites are very common during the summer months, especially if you spend a lot of time outdoors. If you think you’re experiencing an allergic reaction to an insect, you should call 911. However, for minor insect bites or infected insect bites, AFC Centennial is available to provide rapid same-day care! Our walk-in clinic in Centennial, CO is open 7 days a week and accepts walk-in patients.
We have short wait times, and are open on weekends, making our clinic a convenient and affordable option for treatment for minor conditions like insect bites or stings. We work with most medical insurance plans, and have affordable rates for self-paying patients. To learn more about the services we offer, visit our website or give us a call at (303) 220-9168.
