What are the treatment options for insect bites and stings?

Most local reactions settle with simple first aid. Remove a visible bee stinger by scraping it away without squeezing, then wash the skin. A wrapped cold pack can reduce swelling, while an appropriate antihistamine or soothing cream may help itch. Allergy medication should be selected with advice when you take other medicines, are pregnant, or are treating a child.

A GP consultation is useful for spreading redness, increasing warmth, pus, persistent swelling, or a reaction that is not settling. A clinician can distinguish a local reaction from infection or a more serious allergy.

Move away from the insect, wash the site, and apply a cool compress. Keep the area clean and avoid scratching, which can damage the skin and allow infection. Remove rings or tight jewellery near a swelling hand or finger. Follow the product label for any medicine and do not apply household chemicals to the skin.

If you have previously had a severe allergic reaction, follow your personal emergency plan and carry prescribed rescue medicine as directed. Make a note of what caused the reaction and how quickly symptoms developed.

Call emergency services immediately for swelling of the lips, tongue, or throat; wheezing; trouble breathing; faintness; or widespread itchy rash after a bite or sting. Seek medical advice for a sting in the mouth or throat, multiple stings, a bite near the eye, or signs of infection such as worsening pain, warmth, pus, or fever.

Ask which allergy medication suits your symptoms, how to use it, whether you need an emergency plan, and how to recognise infection. If reactions recur, ask how to reduce exposure and whether further allergy assessment is appropriate.