What should you know about facial swelling after insect bite?

A raised, itchy area around the bite is often a local skin reaction. Swelling of the eyelids, lips or face beyond the bite can occur with [Angioedema](/conditions/angioedema/). Hives, wheezing, vomiting, dizziness or throat tightness are warning signs of [Anaphylaxis](/conditions/anaphylaxis/). Redness that expands with increasing pain, warmth, pus or fever needs review for [Cellulitis](/conditions/cellulitis/).

Wash the area gently and remove any visible stinger by scraping rather than squeezing. Apply a cold pack wrapped in cloth for short periods, avoid scratching and keep the face elevated when resting. Note the insect, time of the bite, medicines taken and changes in symptoms. A pharmacist or clinician can advise on an appropriate antihistamine or pain reliever for your circumstances.

Call emergency services for trouble breathing or swallowing, a changed voice, tongue or throat swelling, collapse, confusion, widespread hives or rapidly increasing facial swelling. Follow any existing allergy plan and use prescribed emergency medicine as directed. [Anaphylaxis Emergency Treatment](/treatments/acute-and-urgent-care/anaphylaxis-emergency-treatment/) describes the emergency response.

Ask whether the reaction was local or systemic, whether allergy testing is useful and how to handle future bites. Mention previous reactions, new medicines, fever, skin warmth and whether the swelling is improving.