When an insect stings you, they puncture the sting and leave behind saliva, venom or faeces. They may also leave behind their stinger, depending on the insect. An insect sting often causes burning, redness, pain and swelling. The sting area generally clears up within 48 hours.

An insect sting may cause an allergic reaction. This often happens with bee, wasp and ant stings. 

If you have been stung by a bee, do not use tweezers to remove the remaining sting, as this will release more venom. Instead, try to remove it by scraping it from the side with a fingernail or credit card. Flicking the sting out will reduce the amount of venom it’ll leave behind.

After removing the sting, wash with soap and water and then gently dry.

About bites

When an insect bites you, they also puncture your skin. This may cause skin irritation, swelling and a bump to form where they bit. As with most stings, they clear up within 48 hours. However, some, such as fleas, may cause more intense symptoms.

Responding to insect bites

Insect bites often require a minimal response. It is advised that you wash the area with soap and water, gently dry and then apply antiseptic cream. Avoid applying pressure on the area and keep it elevated and cool.

If bitten by a wasp or hornet, wash the area with soap and water, apply a cold compress, and watch out for signs of anaphylaxis. If further symptoms develop, seek medical assistance.

First aid treatment

If someone shows signs of a severe allergic reaction, help them get emergency medical attention and follow the steps in the next section. If they show no signs of a severe reaction, treat the site of the bite or sting for minor symptoms:

• If the insect’s stinger is still embedded in their skin, remove it by gently scraping a flat-edged object, such as a credit card, across their skin. Avoid using tweezers to remove the stinger, since squeezing it may release more venom.
• Wash the area of the bite with soap and water.
• Place a cold compress or ice pack on the area for about 10 minutes at a time to help reduce pain and swelling. Wrap any ice or ice packs in a clean cloth to protect their skin.
• Apply calamine lotion or a paste of baking soda and water to the area several times a day to help relieve itching and pain. Calamine lotion is a type of antihistamine cream. For medical kits & supplies click here!

Difference between insects and spiders 

Insect bites generally swell and itch, whereas spider bites are more associated with pain. Even non-deadly spider bites can cause nausea, migraines and strong stomach pain. 

Spiders can be grouped into three groups. If you are bitten by a big black spider, call 000 immediately. If you are bitten by a redback or any other spider, apply a cold compress for 15 minutes and seek medical assistance if needed. 

Act Now

If you take the right steps, you can create a bug, insect and spider-free household. With summer coming up, they’ll especially be present, so act with prevention in mind. To avoid your kids or pets being harmed, call us today on 9336 6944 or contact us online.

How we tackle commercial pests

If you’re looking for pest control in Perth, you’re in the right place. Our approach to pests involves performing a thorough assessment of your business. Once we’ve identified the pest at hand, we’ll provide a custom treatment plan. Each plan prioritises moving swiftly while maximising efficacy, so you don’t need to worry about business downtime.

Pestpro preventing pests from returning to your home or business 

After your business has dealt with the threat of pests, it’s unlikely you’ll want to see them again. Although exact pest control tips vary between industries, we can make the following recommendations:

Call Pestpro 9336 6944 your pest control experts