Insect bites or stings may be associated with large circular areas of swelling; the raw areas on the left lesion are probably due to scratching. Some people react to insect bites with large, fluid-filled blisters. On people with darker skin, inflammation and redness from insect bites can appear as red-brown-colored lesions. Insect bites or bug bites can cause localized redness and itching. An insect bite can result in a blister. Two insect bites are shown on this foot; note that the larger one has a tiny central crust where the insect bit. Insect bites often have small blisters that dry and crust. Bites from insects often lead to itch, scratching, and resulting crusts. Bug bites often cause hive-like (urticarial), swollen lesions.
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Bug Bite or Sting (Pediatric)  A parent's guide to condition and treatment information

Picture of Bug Bite or Sting (Pediatric): Insect bites or stings may be associated with large circular areas of swelling; the raw areas on the left lesion are probably due to scratching. Divider line
Insect bites or stings may be associated with large circular areas of swelling; the raw areas on the left lesion are probably due to scratching.
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Treatments Your Provider May Prescribe
Depending on the type of insect bite and how your child reacts to it, your child's doctor might treat you in a number of ways.

For insect bites:
  • Prescription topical corticosteroids
  • Muscle relaxants
  • Pain medicines
  • An antidote against the specific toxin (antivenin)
  • Antibiotics
  • Sometimes surgery at the affected area, if the insect bite is severe
For stings:
  • Antihistamines or corticosteroids
  • Epinephrine
  • Antihistamines
  • Corticosteroids
  • Injected (intravenous) fluids and oxygen for shock (anaphylaxis)
  • Injectable epinephrine if your child is known to have severe allergic reactions
  • Procedures to stimulate the immune system (immunotherapy) to reduce the chance of repeated severe reactions

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Last Modified: 22 Dec 2008
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