How To Treat Insect & Spider Bites

Anti-Itch Creams

Similar to calamine, patients may want to find additional creams that can reduce their need to itch the infected area. It may even be as simple as cleaning the bite and applying an antibiotic ointment. This could soothe the area quickly, and patients can likely find an anti-itch cream that possesses similar qualities. Antihistamines can also reduce the need to itch.

Since these are topical creams, individuals should apply them with relative ease right over the infected area. Once they start reducing the inflammation, the key reason patients are being driven to itch in the first place, they should feel relief from the desire to itch. As suggested before, if individuals can find anti-itch creams with antibacterial qualities, they can give the bite a double dose of relief and treatment. Of course, if the bite seems to be a result of a poisonous spider or bug, patients should see their doctor immediately as they might need a dose of anti-venom. For just itchy bites, creams work well.

Clean The Bite With Soap And Water Immediately

If the patient has been bitten by an insect or spider, it is important to clean the bite with soap and water immediately. This crucial first step can help prevent infection and other potential complications at the site. Either warm or cold water can be used, and any antibacterial soap is appropriate. Since the site may be painful, placing it under running water for a few seconds can help, and dipping the affected area in soapy water may be less painful than rubbing soap directly onto the site. When drying the site, use a gentle patting motion rather than a rubbing motion; rubbing might increase pain.

Doctors recommend washing the area with soapy water several times a day for the first two days after the bite. If the bite is large, itchy, or swollen, covering it with a sterile bandage could reduce scratching and keep the area cleaner than it otherwise would be. The area may need to be washed again when the bandage is changed. Alcohol-based hand sanitizers should never be used to clean a bite, as they may cause tissue damage. However, it is safe to use antiseptics found in first aid kits if soap is not available.