What should be used to treat a bug bite? - briefly
Clean the bite with mild soap and water, then apply a cold compress to reduce swelling. Follow with an over‑the‑counter antihistamine cream or 1 % hydrocortisone to alleviate itching and inflammation.
What should be used to treat a bug bite? - in detail
Clean the affected area with mild soap and water, then apply a gentle antiseptic such as povidone‑iodine or chlorhexidine. This reduces bacterial load and prepares the skin for further treatment.
For itching and mild inflammation, oral antihistamines (e.g., diphenhydramine, cetirizine) or a topical antihistamine cream can be applied. If redness extends beyond the bite, a low‑strength corticosteroid ointment (hydrocortisone 1 %) helps control the immune response.
Cold compresses limit swelling; wrap an ice pack in a cloth and apply for 10‑15 minutes, repeating every hour as needed. Elevating the limb, when possible, also diminishes fluid accumulation.
If the bite shows signs of infection—purulent discharge, increasing pain, or spreading redness—consult a healthcare professional. A short course of oral antibiotics (e.g., dicloxacillin, cephalexin) may be prescribed based on bacterial culture or empirical guidelines.
Summary of recommended measures