Dr. Nicole Sa, a dermatologist and lecturer at the University of Nicosia School of Medicine, Dr. Nicole Sakka, a dermatologist and lecturer at the University of Nicosia School of Medicine, urges the public to be aware of these issues.
Speaking on the Alpha News program, Dr. Sakka explained that while some insect bites can be treated with simple home remedies, there are also cases that require immediate medical attention.
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When to Seek Immediate Medical Attention
Special caution is needed in the event of a bee sting, as it can trigger a severe allergic reaction.
As Dr. Sakka noted, symptoms that should raise concern include:
- Swelling and severe hives
- Swelling of the lips
- Difficulty breathing
- Difficulty swallowing
- Swelling of the ears
- Dizziness or weakness
- Chest tightness
In such cases, as he emphasized, you should go to the Emergency Department immediately.
The location of the sting also plays an important role. A bite on a finger may require a different treatment than a bite on the lips or another sensitive area.
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When the bite is mild
In cases where there is mild redness, a small bump, or mild itching, with no other concerning symptoms, simple home remedies can be used.
There are soothing creams without active pharmaceutical ingredients, such as calamine, that can be applied to the skin’s surface.
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Ice can also be used to relieve symptoms, but caution is needed, as prolonged exposure of the skin to very low temperatures can cause additional problems.
What about corticosteroid creams?
In some cases, prescription corticosteroid creams are also used, but they should not be used indiscriminately.
As Dr. Sakka explained, these creams have specific durations and frequencies of use and are usually applied about twice a day, depending on the individual case.
Caution with Antihistamines
Antihistamines can also be used to treat itching, but some of them may cause drowsiness, fatigue, and sleepiness.
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For this reason, Dr. Sakka warns that those taking such medications should be especially careful and avoid driving or traveling long distances, if the medication causes drowsiness.
When to See a Dermatologist
It’s not just allergic reactions that should prompt us to seek help. Even in the case of mosquito bites, an evaluation by a specialist is necessary when symptoms are severe or persistent.
According to Dr. Sakka, it’s a good idea to see a dermatologist when:
- there is very severe itching,
- sores form on the skin,
- there are many bites,
- severe swelling or hives appear,
- or the symptoms do not subside.
At the same time, symptoms such as muscle aches and joint pain, especially when they occur alongside other symptoms following a bite, require medical evaluation.
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