It is officially that time of year and the insects are out to play! As we tend to spend more time outdoors, many of us are more prone to bites and stings. In today’s blog we are going to break down all the bites and stings that you could be subject to in the UK summer so you are always prepared.
The usual culprits include mosquitoes, wasps, bees, ticks, and midges. Each can cause different types of reactions, ranging from mild irritation to more serious responses, depending on the individual and the insect involved.
Mosquito Bites
What it looks like: Small, red, raised bump, often round and itchy.
Reaction: Itching, mild swelling. Some people may develop larger itchy welts.
Location: Usually on exposed skin like arms, legs, or ankles.
Avoid scratching to reduce risk of infection. Use antihistamines or bite relief creams.
Midge Bites (especially in Scotland)
What it looks like: Tiny red dots or bumps, sometimes in clusters.
Reaction: Very itchy, often appearing in groups or lines.
Location: Common on arms, legs, and neck.
People can have strong reactions to midges, especially in humid or wooded areas.
Wasp or Bee Stings
What it looks like: A red, swollen area with a white spot in the middle (where the sting went in).
Reaction: Painful and sharp at first, followed by swelling and redness.
Severe reaction (anaphylaxis): Difficulty breathing, swelling of face/lips, dizziness- this is a medical emergency.
Bee stings may leave the stinger behind- remove it gently with a card edge, not tweezers.
Horsefly Bites
What it looks like: A large, red, raised area- sometimes with a visible bite mark or blister.
Reaction: Very painful and may swell significantly. Risk of infection if not cleaned properly.
Location: Legs and arms, often when outdoors or near livestock.
Can lead to cellulitis if not treated- keep it clean and monitor for spreading redness or heat.
Tick Bites
What it looks like: Small red bump, often with the tick still attached.
Reaction: Can cause a rash. If infected with Lyme disease, you may develop a bullseye-shaped rash (red ring with clear centre).
Location: Groin, armpits, behind knees, anywhere warm and hidden.
If bitten by a tick, remove it ASAP with a tick removal tool or fine tweezers. Monitor for flu-like symptoms or rash.
Flea Bites
What it looks like: Small red spots, often in clusters or lines.
Reaction: Very itchy. May form a scab or blister in sensitive individuals.
Location: Ankles, lower legs, and around the waist.
Bedbug Bites
What it looks like: Red, itchy welts in a row or zigzag pattern.
Reaction: Itching, irritation, sometimes allergic reaction.
Location: Neck, arms, and exposed skin during sleep.
Bites appear overnight and are often in straight lines.
How Coda Pharmacy Can Help
If you’re concerned about an insect bite, we’re here to help.
At Coda Pharmacy, we offer the Pharmacy First service, meaning you don’t have to wait for a GP appointment to get advice. If your bite looks infected, is becoming increasingly painful, or you’re worried that it’s not healing as expected, our pharmacy team can assess your symptoms and recommend the most appropriate treatment.
Our team is on hand to provide expert advice, recommend over-the-counter treatments where appropriate, and, if needed, supply prescription-only medication through the Pharmacy First service. If your symptoms require further medical attention, we’ll make sure you know the best next step.
For more information visit: https://codapharmacy.co.uk/our-services/#pharmacyfirst
General Treatment Tips:
- Wash the area with soap and water.
- Use cold compresses to reduce swelling.
- Apply antihistamine cream or take oral antihistamines for itching.
- Use hydrocortisone cream if the itch is severe (short term only).
- Seek medical advice if the area becomes hot, red, and increasingly painful (signs of infection), or if symptoms worsen.
Prevention Tips:
Mosquitoes & Midges: Use insect repellent containing DEET, avoid stagnant water (ponds, puddles) where mosquitoes breed.
Wasps & Bees: Avoid strong perfumes and bright floral clothing, they attract wasps and bees, stay calm if a wasp or bee is near, sudden movements make stings more likely.
Horseflies: Cover skin when around fields, farms, or countryside in summer.
Ticks: Wear long trousers tucked into socks when walking in grassy or wooded areas, check your body after outdoor activities.
Fleas & Bedbugs:Treat pets regularly with flea prevention medication, avoid bringing second-hand mattresses or furniture into the home without checking.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I stop insect bites from itching? Try to avoid scratching, as this can make the bite worse and increase the risk of infection. Applying a cold compress, an antihistamine cream or tablet, or a soothing cream such as calamine lotion can help relieve itching and irritation.
When should I be worried about an insect bite? Most insect bites get better within a few days. However, you should seek medical advice if the redness and swelling continue to spread, the bite becomes very painful, you notice pus, or you develop symptoms such as a high temperature or feel generally unwell. If you experience difficulty breathing, swelling of the face or throat, or feel faint after a bite or sting, call 999 immediately.
Coda Pharmacy is here to support you every step of the way. From offering expert advice to delivering your NHS prescriptions free of charge. If you have any questions about what you have read in this article or any of the services that Coda Pharmacy can provide you with, please do not hesitate to reach out and contact us here.
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