Wondering whether you can head to a walk-in clinic because you or someone you are close to has recently been bitten by a bug? While bug bites tend to be more of an annoyance than a problem, it is always better to be safe than sorry. Bug bites tend to occur more during the summertime but can occur anytime during the year. Bug bites also tend to occur more often outside but can occur indoors as well. If a bug bite looks serious, seems like it is now infected, or is causing someone to experience certain side effects, then visiting a walk-in clinic is suggested, as they provide same-day treatment.
While no one wants to get bitten by a bug, these bites can happen anytime: When sleeping, when camping, when picnicking, and just from generally being outside where most bugs exist. So what can someone do to decrease their chances of being bitten by a bug? Using a bug repellent that includes DEET is recommended when outside, and it should be washed off as soon as one is done with their outside activities for the day. For those who want natural bug repellent options, using essential oils is recommended, like peppermint, lavender, or citronella. Planting plants that are known for their bug-repellent properties is also suggested; try rosemary, basil, and lemon balm.
The list below includes four bug bite remedies that anyone can use when at home to treat their bug bite.
Using ice or a cool cloth helps to reduce any swelling and also cools the bug bite area.
While using green tea is optimal, white tea and chamomile tea can also be used. Place a tea bag in cold water for about 15 minutes and then place it directly on the bug bite for about 10 minutes. The tannins in the tea help to reduce any swelling present and also minimize itching.
Pour a little bit of apple cider vinegar on a cotton ball and then apply directly to the bug bite area. The acidity found in the vinegar helps to neutralize any toxins that may have entered the skin via the bug bite.
Mix a tablespoon or so of baking soda with a little bit of water and then apply directly to the skin where the bug bite is located. Leave on until the pain or itching stops and then simply wash off.
Patients need to be proactive if they get bitten by an insect that causes an allergic response or a serious sickness. It is best to go to the emergency hospital if they get stung or bitten and begin to develop hives, trouble breathing, nausea or vomiting, dizziness, or swelling around the face. If untreated, anaphylaxis, a life-threatening allergic response, may result from these symptoms.
Patients should consult a dermatologist about tick bites to get tested for tick-borne infections, such as Lyme disease. If the bug latches into the skin, the appropriate approach is to remove the tick and store it in an airtight bag so that the doctor may inspect it. Knowing the tick that caused the bite may help the doctor select the best way to screen and treat the patient since various ticks might transmit different illnesses.
Even a simple insect bite demands medical care if the surrounding area gets tender and red and hot, and there is an infection concern. The doctor will seldom prescribe medications for bug bites unless the bite gets infected. Scratching the bite may result in a skin break and the introduction of microorganisms. If the person notices red, swollen skin and fever, they should consult a doctor immediately to rule out a more serious illness.
Patients will need a prescription for a topical steroid or antihistamine from a dermatologist if natural therapies are not controlling or stopping the itching.
Are you thinking about going to a walk-in clinic for same-day bug bite treatment? It is always better to be safe than sorry, so if you have a bug bite that needs medical treatment, going to a walk-in clinic is recommended. If you feel that one or more of the above bug bite remedies will work for you, we suggest you try them first to see if they work.
Get more information here: https://tx-urgentcare.com or call Texas Urgent Care & Imaging Center at (832) 941-1894
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