Does a GP consultation treat insect bites and stings?

Bites and stings may cause local redness, itching, swelling or soreness. A GP will consider what caused the reaction, how quickly it developed, whether the skin is becoming infected, and whether the symptoms involve more than the bite area. They may recommend an appropriate cream, antihistamine or other treatment, depending on your age, medicines and medical history.

A spreading rash, increasing warmth, pus or worsening pain can suggest infection rather than a simple local reaction. A clinician can also help when the insect is unknown, the sting is in a sensitive area, or symptoms keep returning.

Wash the area with soap and water, remove a visible bee stinger by gently scraping rather than squeezing, and use a cool compress wrapped in cloth. Try not to scratch. Arrange a GP consultation if swelling or itching is troublesome, the area is worsening, you have signs of infection, or symptoms are not settling. Tell the clinician when it happened and any product already used.

Call emergency services immediately for trouble breathing, swelling of the lips, tongue or throat, faintness, confusion, or a rapidly spreading reaction. Seek urgent assessment for a sting inside the mouth or throat, multiple stings, or severe symptoms after a known allergy. Do not wait for a routine appointment in these situations.

Ask whether the reaction looks allergic or infected, which treatment suits you, how long to use it, and what warning signs should prompt urgent help. If this followed a suspected allergy, ask how to reduce risk from future stings.