Soothing the Sting of Summer Dr. James Welters, Northwest Family Physicians

A big, swollen itchy welt….

We Minnesotans are quite familiar with these “spots of summer.”

They come in all shapes and sizes and are the remains of a whole host of this season’s buggers, like mosquitos, gnats, horse flies, ticks, bees and more!

Every bug delivers its own bite and every person reacts differently. And, we all know bug spray or other treatments such as antihistamins and cortisone creams can help to minimize bites and the resulting itching, scratching and overall uncomfortable feeling from these crawling and flying nuisances. But, there are several lesser-known facts, tips and tricks to bite back when it comes to the most common bug offenders in Minnesota this time of year. For example:

·         Mosquitos: If you or your child is bit by a mosquito, apply ice to the scene of the crime to prevent itching and swelling. A roll-on deodorant that contains aluminum chloride can help too.

·         Bees: It is normal for a bee sting to itch in the area of the sting. What is not normal is itching all over the body after a bee sting. This could be a sign of severe allergic reaction to the bee sting. In this case, seek immediate medical attention. Other worrisome symptoms may be lip or throat swelling, shortness of breath, chest tightness.

·         Horse Flies: Once you realize you have been bitten, cover the wound with saliva. Your saliva is filled with Histatin, a protein that contains healing properties which will allow you to limit the negative effects of the bite and protect it until you can get indoors and treat it properly.

·         Gnats: If you've been bitten by a gnat, be sure to wash the bite with soap and water. Gnats can pick up bacteria from some of their favorite things: rotten food and dead animals!

·         Ticks: Flu-like symptoms following a deer tick bite can signify Lyme Disease or other serious medical problems. And, while wood ticks don’t cause Lyme Disease, they can cause swelling, itching and other reactions.

When in doubt, contact your doctor to make sure your bug bite, reaction or wound isn’t serious.  In the meantime, make sure to protect yourself from these plentiful pests in Minnesota and enjoy the season while it lasts.