The Treatment of General Bug Bites and Cockroach Bites
Bugs, insects, creepy crawlies … whatever you call them, they can mean serious trouble. One of the most uncomfortable situations involving these critters could be their bites. From spider bites and ticks to mosquitoes and horse flies, the results of the bites range from irritating to deadly. For you safety and comfort, you should learn to treat bug bites (cockroach bites) promptly and correctly.
General Treatment for Bug Bites
The majority of bites from which people suffer have a short lifetime marked by scratching and irritation. When you are suffering from the itchy, painful discomfort of bug bites, take the following steps to relieve these symptoms:
- Use an icepack until the swelling is gone and then use a warm compress for remaining discomfort.
- Prop up the bite and keep it elevated to reduce swelling.
- Take an antihistamine according to package directions and recommendations from your medical provider.
- Apply an ointment of hydrocortisone cream or calamine lotion.
- Try a local anesthetic spray with benzocaine to relieve painful bites.
- Try hard not to itch them. Itching can cause them to become inflamed and worse.
Bites You Can’t Ignore
Some bug bites can spell real danger if treatment is neglected. For example, the bite of a tick can lead to Lyme disease, a condition that affects the heart, brain, and nerves, often resulting in arthritis. Knowing the dangers of poisonous spider bites, people are generally on the lookout for these pests and take prompt action when they suspect a bite.
Treatment of Cockroach Bites
One area that often goes unmentioned are cockroach bites. These bites can be very dangerous because roaches are carriers of many types of bacteria. Any resulting infection might be uncomfortable and could spread rapidly. Treatment of these bites is simple and effective when carried out promptly.
- Kill the cockroach. If you have the dubious fortunate of finding the bug that bit you, get rid of it before it alerts others to come to the area. One cockroach can quickly multiply into an infestation.
- Clean the wound thoroughly with rubbing alcohol. Pinch the area of the bite between two fingers as you disinfect; this should force as much of the bacteria out as possible.
- Watch the bite for the next several days. It should be gone within a week, but if you weren’t able to get rid of all the bacteria, you may still see an infection. This will be characterized by pus, a bright red or deep purple, and in some cases a sickly green color. If this happens, see a doctor right away.
Know When to See a Doctor
While there are some bites that seem to be a normal part of summer, such as mosquito bites, in reality, many bites can present serious health problems. It’s best to treat them promptly and to visit with your doctor when trouble is suspect to prevent serious complications.