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While common, insect bites may cause serious reactions. At Silver Falls Dermatology, our providers help Oregon and Washington patients find relief from their symptoms.
A majority of insect bites or stings are harmless, but may cause irritating, itchy or painful symptoms. Some examples of common types of biting or stinging insects include:
In most cases, insect bites or stings will cause an itchy, red or irritated bump. Some bites or stings, such as bee, hornet or wasp stings, may be painful.
Patients with allergies to certain biting or stinging insects can face dangerous symptoms including anaphylaxis. Anaphylaxis can include symptoms such as difficulty breathing, swelling of the lips, tongue or face, dizziness, vomiting or headache. If you experience these symptoms, you should seek emergency care.
Bites from ticks will cause a bullseye-shaped mark, and the tick may remain in the skin. Remove the tick using tweezers as soon as possible and schedule an appointment with a medical professional. Ticks can spread illnesses such a Lyme disease, Powassan virus or Rocky Mountain spotted fever, though most ticks do not carry diseases.
Most insect bites can be treated using over-the-counter medications such as hydrocortisone or antihistamines. If you experience a more severe rash or other symptoms, you should schedule an appointment with a dermatologist or other provider. They can examine you for diseases which may be spread by insects or prescribe an appropriate treatment.
To learn more about insect bite treatment, schedule an appointment at Silver Falls Dermatology. Call your local office to schedule your appointment or contact us online for general information.
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