Bites and stings
Posted on Jun 11, 2008 It's impossible to prevent all insect bites, but it will help to follow these rules:
1. Avoid stagnant pools of water, uncovered foods that attract insects, garbage cans and blooming flowers.
2. Cover as much skin area as possible with light-weight clothing.
3. Avoid bright colors, scented soaps, hair sprays and perfume.
4. Itching due to insect bites can be treated with cold compresses and calamine lotion. For severe itching, 1% hydrocortisone cream may be applied four times daily.
5. Even severe localized swelling is not associated with future life-threatening events unless there is breathing difficulty and a rash.
