Getting bitten by a mosquito, ant, or another insect is an unfortunate but common part of spending time outdoors – especially during the warmer months. If you’ve ever looked down and noticed a red, swollen bump where you were bitten, you might wonder if it’s normal or if you should be concerned. There are times when swelling may signal a more serious reaction or infection. In this blog, we’ll break down what normal swelling looks like, when to seek medical care, and how to reduce discomfort at home.
For same-day seasonal care, visit the walk-in clinic at AFC Urgent Care Denver University Hills. Our medical team is committed to providing the best care for all patients in the Denver, CO area. Simply walk-in or pre-register below.
Why Bug Bites Cause Swelling
When an insect bites or stings you, it injects saliva or venom into your skin. Your immune system sees this as a foreign substance and reacts by sending white blood cells to the area. This immune response leads to classic bug bite symptoms, including:
- Redness
- Mild to moderate swelling
- Itching or stinging
- Warmth around the bite
For most people, swelling stays localized and goes away within a few days. Mosquitoes, fleas, and ants are the most common culprits of mild, swollen bites, and they usually don’t cause any long-term issues. In some cases, people may experience larger swelling due to sensitivity to the insect’s saliva or a mild allergic reaction.
When Is Swelling After a Big Bite Not Normal?
While most bug bites are harmless, some situations warrant medical attention. You should be cautious if you notice:
- Excessive swelling that spreads well beyond the bite site (especially if the area is hot, firm, or painful)
- Signs of infection, such as oozing pus, increased redness, or streaking away from the bite
- Systemic symptoms like fever, chills, nausea, or swollen lymph nodes
- Hives, difficulty breathing, or facial swelling (these may indicate a serious reaction)
- Swelling that lasts more than a week or worsens over time
Some insect bites, like those from bees, wasps, spiders, or ticks, can cause more serious reactions depending on the species and your individual sensitivity. If you’re unsure what bit you or your symptoms seem abnormal, it’s best to play it safe and get evaluated by a healthcare provider.
When To Visit Urgent Care
You should seek medical attention for your bug bite if:
- The swelling becomes painful, red, or hard
- You develop a fever or feel generally unwell
- The bite gets infected or starts draining pus
- You’re unsure what bit you and the symptoms are progressing
- You have a history of allergic reactions to insect bites or stings
At an urgent care center, a medical provider can assess the bite, and provide appropriate treatment (including prescription creams or antibiotics if needed).
Get Walk-In Bug Bite Treatment at AFC Urgent Care Denver University Hills
A little swelling after a bug bite is completely normal and usually nothing to worry about. However, it’s important to monitor your symptoms and know the difference between a typical reaction and one that needs medical attention. When in doubt, it’s always best to be safe and get checked out. If you’re experiencing symptoms, visit the walk-in clinic at AFC Urgent Care Denver University Hills! We’re open 7 days a week and operate on a walk-in basis, meaning you don’t need to make an appointment prior to visiting. If you have any additional questions about the services we provide, please contact our medical team directly at (303) 756-4500.
