Developed An Allergic Reaction And Inflammation Because Of Touching A Caterpillar. What Should Be Done?

Posted on Tue, 12 Nov 2013

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Tue, 12 Nov 2013 Answered on

Tue, 3 Dec 2013 Last reviewed on

Question : unknowingly I touched a caterpillar .. which was there on my towel it's many small small throns. inserted in my finger what I suppose to. immediately

Answered by Dr. Rakesh Madhyastha (29 minutes later)

Brief Answer: Allergic reaction Detailed Answer: Hello Thanks for the query I have seen the photograph you have sent, it looks like you have developed an allergic reaction and inflammation because of touching the insect. I advice you to do the following 1. Do not itch the hand, it will worsen it. 2. Apply calamine lotion three times daily over the inflammation, cold packs are effective too 3. Tab chlorpheniramine malete is the ideal drug for this, take one now and again after 12 hours for 3 days. It can make you a little sleepy so please do not drive or do any manual work around sharp instruments. Another alternative is to take Tab levocetrzine one now and one after 12 hours for 3 days. 4. If you develop severe pain or fever please approach a physician I hope I was of help, if you have any further queries please get back to me I wish you good health and a speedy recovery Regards

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar