Urgent Care For Bug Bites: What You Need To Know

It's the summer season, and for many, that means a higher likelihood of bug bites. Bug bites are a nuisance but are typically harmless. However, there are some bug bites that can require medical treatment. Here is what you need to know:

When Does a Bug Bite Require Medical Treatment?

There are several bug bites that are dangerous and need to be treated medically at urgent care or by your doctor. Poisonous bug bites, such as those from certain spiders, will need to be treated by a doctor. If you are allergic to wasps or bees, you need to seek medical treatment as well. If you are bitten by a tick, you should go to urgent care to keep an eye out for Lyme disease. In addition, you might notice a bug bite becomes redder or more painful than usual. If this happens, it is likely infected and will need a round of antibiotics.

How Can You Tell if a Bug Bite Is Dangerous?

One of the best ways to know if a bug bite warrants medical attention is knowing the type of bug that bit you. For example, black widow or brown recluse spiders are known to be poisonous. If you know the species, you can act accordingly.

You also should look for signs of infection. You will see redness and swelling surrounding the bitten area. The area will be hot to the touch and quite sensitive. You might notice a discharge coming out of the bite as well. You might even experience fever and chills.

Can't You Just Treat Bug Bites at Home?

Most bug bites can be treated at home. You can try applying antibiotic cream or anti-itch ointment to the area after cleaning it with soap and water. You can also take an antihistamine if needed. If you do not experience any other symptoms, you should be fine. However, if you experience worsening symptoms, you need to get to your nearest urgent care facility to make sure the bite does not escalate into a major medical condition.

How Are Bug Bites Treated at Urgent Care?

Once you go to urgent care for your bug bite, the doctor will evaluate your condition and symptoms. If your bite appears infected, the doctor will prescribe antibiotics and some topical treatment. For some bites, you may need treatment that will require further medical care. Certain bites may require a surgical procedure to remove the infected tissue or abscess.

Contact an urgent care practice like Fuller Family Medicine to learn more. 

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