Stings and bites from insects are common, especially during the summertime when we tend to spend more time outdoors in their space. In most cases, insect bites are harmless and barely noticeable. However, there are certain circumstances where you should seek medical care after a bug bite. Keep reading to learn more about tips for healing bug bites and signs that your bite requires treatment. At AFC Urgent Care Bedford, our clinic offers walk-in care for minor injuries and illnesses including bug bites. Walk into the clinic today, we’re open from 8am-8pm 7 days a week!
Why Do Insects Bite?
Different kinds of insects can sting, ranging from bees to wasps and from hornets to fire ants. Many insects, like every other living organism, attack when they feel threatened or provoked. Insect bites are defensive mechanisms used by insects to protect themselves from danger or protect their homes from destruction.
However, there are some insects that use humans for their own benefits, such as mosquitos, ticks and other flying insects. Unfortunately, some bugs can transmit diseases or cause an allergic reaction in humans, so it is important to be aware of your surroundings when you’re outdoors during the summer to take steps to avoid getting bitten or stung by insects.
Risks Associated with Insect Bites
There are many different insects that you can encounter in the summertime based on where you live and how much time you spend outdoors. While some insects like mosquitoes are harmless, some insects risk causing a severe allergic reaction, the spread of diseases like Lyme disease, and even exposure to poison which requires medical treatment.
If you find an insect bite on you that is bothering you, but aren’t sure what exact bit you it is important to monitor the bite area closely. If you notice any of these symptoms, seek urgent medical care for treatment:
- Pain in the bitten area
- Puss leaking from the bite
- Trouble breathing
- Fever
- Swelling in your face and/or mouth
- Wheezing
How to Prevent Insect Bites
The best way to protect yourself from the risks associated with bug bites is to prevent the bites from happening. In some cases, this includes avoiding areas during a certain time of day, wearing appropriate clothing to protect yourself, or using bug sprays to deter bugs from coming near you. Consider these tips for preventing bug bites this summer:
- Call a professional exterminator to help remove nearby insect colonies in your home
- Avoid outdoor activities during dawn and dusk
- Wear full-coverage clothing when in long grasses
- Use insect repellents when outdoors
- Be aware of your surroundings to avoid contact with nests/hives
Visit AFC Urgent Care Bedford for Same-Day Treatment
At AFC Urgent Care Bedford, we understand how frustrating bug bites can be. Not only do they sometimes take a long time to heal, but they often are incredibly painful or itchy. At AFC Urgent Care Bedford, our walk-in clinic provides same-day treatment for bug bites for patients of all ages in Bedford, MA.
We accept most medical insurance plans and offer affordable rates for care. We never require that you schedule an appointment in advance to receive prompt care, simply walk into the clinic when it’s convenient for you. For more information, contact the clinic directly by calling (781) 430-8161.
