Suggest Treatment For Severe Swelling After An Insect Bite

Posted on Tue, 28 Jul 2015

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

Tue, 28 Jul 2015 Answered on

Tue, 18 Aug 2015 Last reviewed on

Question : Had some sort of insect bite, ( I assume as I did not see the critter!), yesterday early aftn while weed whacking yard, on right hand ring finger. Removed a rather noticeable stinger, medicated, iced down and also soaked in a vinegar/water bath. Was a little painful for around a half hour but generally seemed to be OK. Had swollen a little and somewhat when woke up this am. Seems more I use the hand today is getting more swollen. I am about to hit with ice again but wondering possibilities as to what it may have been. I have had allergic reactions to wasps such that I need steroidal injection to reduce swelling. This is something annoying so far but figured the swelling should be subsiding by now. Am I wrong to expect that?
-John Seifert, Monroeville, PA

Answered by Dr. Dr. Erion Spaho (33 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Swelling should subside in a couple of days.

Detailed Answer:
Hello and thanks for using HCM.

I have read your question and understand your concerns.

Insect bites and stings are two different things.

If there was a sting most probable insects are bees, wasps and ants.

If it was a bite, most probable insects are fleas, bed bugs and mites.

Local swelling is more likely to occur with stings and should subside in s couple of days.

Beside ice use, there is need to rest your hand and when you lay down there is need to put dhe hand on a position above the body ( using pillows eg.).

If swelling spreads after a couple of days, you need to be checked about local infection or delayed allergic reaction.

Hope you find the answer helpful.

Take care.

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Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Vinay Bhardwaj