Suggest Treatment For Insect Bite

Posted on Sat, 5 Jul 2014

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

Sat, 5 Jul 2014 Answered on

Fri, 25 Jul 2014 Last reviewed on

Question : I was bitten/stung playing golf . It is on my calf. It has gotten hard and painful when touched with the pain radiating from the center since 2 days ago. It is also warm to the touch. I do not see any red lines or circles emitting from the area. It just has a red area about an inch wide. I can send a pic if that helps.

Answered by Dr. Ivo Ditah (1 hour later)

Brief Answer:
Please, send a picture!

Detailed Answer:
Hi and thank you so much for this query.

I would be most grateful if you can attach a picture for better assessment and a more personalized response. Would be right here waiting.

Thanks. I wish you well.

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

Follow up: Dr. Ivo Ditah (7 minutes later)

it has pain below the site and around it but only when you touch it. I I do not see any hole for a bite or anything. but it is warm to the touch. I was going to just take some benedryl but my wife thinks it's a little more serious. there is another spot near it but it is smaller and not as warm. I think it may just be a mosquito bite. the ones I have had this year are all leaving a red mark at least 1/4 inch in diameter. but none have had the pain or heat like this.

Answered by Dr. Ivo Ditah (31 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Thanks for the picture!

Detailed Answer:
I have taken a look at the photo.

It seems more concerning than an ordinary bite. It looks to be an ongoing infection and considering all the information and image I have reviewed, this seems to be cellulitis or another form of soft tissue infection.

This is an infection of the skin. Needs antibiotics for correct treatment and any delays in treatment can have far reaching consequences. I will suggest that you get consulted by your primary care doctor for confirmation and adequate treatment.

I hope this helps. I wish you well. Feel free to ask for more information and clarifications if need be. Thank you so much for using our services.

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