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How Are Bug Bites Treated ?
Posted on
Mon, 1 Aug 2011
Medically reviewed by
Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team
Mon, 1 Aug 2011
Answered on
Last reviewed on
Question : I just got back from a vacation in Cancun. While in Mexico i got three bug bites on my feet (unknown what bit me). Its been seven days since the bites. They were red and itchy but have since stopped itching and are just raised bumps with a red ring around them now. My concern is now I seem to be getting red/brown splotchy marks on my legs and arms. Almost like dark bruises that do not hurt and are not tender. I have a rather large one on the leg that had the bad bug bite. Is it possible I am having some type of allergic reaction to the bug bite a week later? I do not feel ill, have no fever, etc. but every day I seem to be getting more of these spots. I am a 39 year old female. 5'4, 130 lbs with no medical issues.
Hello and thanks for your query.
The image seen indicate the possibility of a inflammatory (allergy related) reaction associated with the insect bite. In addition some insects ( Ticks) can cause viral, bacterial or parasitic infections through their bites, which might present late in cases of insect bites.
The first step in the proper diagnosis of the cause would be estimation of the ESR and a complete blood count, and a differential count. This might help to know the main cause of the lesion - infection or inflammatory reaction.
In case of allergy or inflammation , treatment would be with NSAIDs and antihistamines ( Clarytin and Benadryl) and if needed a course of steroids tapered over a few days.
In case of infection, the treatment would be specific to the cause of infection, including antibiotics and supportive medications.
You might consult a doctor who can examine you and order the necessary tests done and this will help to initiate the necessary therapy.
I hope this helps. I will be available to answer any of your additional concerns.
Regards
The image seen indicate the possibility of a inflammatory (allergy related) reaction associated with the insect bite. In addition some insects ( Ticks) can cause viral, bacterial or parasitic infections through their bites, which might present late in cases of insect bites.
The first step in the proper diagnosis of the cause would be estimation of the ESR and a complete blood count, and a differential count. This might help to know the main cause of the lesion - infection or inflammatory reaction.
In case of allergy or inflammation , treatment would be with NSAIDs and antihistamines ( Clarytin and Benadryl) and if needed a course of steroids tapered over a few days.
In case of infection, the treatment would be specific to the cause of infection, including antibiotics and supportive medications.
You might consult a doctor who can examine you and order the necessary tests done and this will help to initiate the necessary therapy.
I hope this helps. I will be available to answer any of your additional concerns.
Regards
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Prasad
Answered by
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