Now that summer has arrived, it’s the ideal time for you to indulge your passion for the great outdoors. Though activities like hiking, camping, canoeing and kayaking can be enjoyable, they can put you in the position to cross paths with insects such as mosquitos, spiders, bees and wasps.
The following sections tell you how to deal with bites from each of these insects:
Treating a Mosquito Bite
Any one of the following remedies will help get you relief from a mosquito bite:
- Use an over-the-counter antihistamine cream to relieve the itch.
- Apply a cold compress to the bite.
- Try putting some toothpaste on the bite.
- Make a paste using baking soda and water then apply it to the bite.
- Place a cool, used tea bag over the bite.
- Dip a cotton ball in some vinegar and wipe it over the bite.
Treating a Spider Bite
If you suffer from a spider bite while you’re outdoors, try one of these treatment methods:
- Clean the bite ASAP with soap and water.
- Apply a cold compress to the bite.
- Elevate the wound if the bite was on your leg or arm.
- Take an over-the-counter pain reliever.
- Watch out for signs of infection.
- If signs of infection occur seek medical attention.
Treating a Bee or Wasp Sting
Here’s what to do if you get stung by a bee or wasp:
- Remove the stinger with a pair of tweezers.
- Wash the sting site with soap and water.
- Apply a cold compress to the sting site.
- Take an over-the-counter antihistamine.
- Put an over-the-counter hydrocortisone cream on the sting site.
- Watch for signs of infection.
- If signs of an infection occur seek medical attention.
For more information about insects, visit the Hocking Woods Nature Center.