Summer means more time outdoors—picnics, hikes, swims, and sunshine. But with the warm weather also comes more encounters with mosquitoes, ticks, bees, wasps, spiders, and other insects. While most bites are harmless, some can cause allergic reactions or lead to infection. Midwest Express Clinic is here to help you know when home care is enough—and when to seek urgent care.
Bug Bites, Stings & When to Worry
Insect bites and stings can cause a range of symptoms depending on the insect and your body’s reaction:
- Mosquito bites: Typically result in itchy, red bumps.
- Tick bites: May carry diseases like Lyme disease or Rocky Mountain spotted fever.
- Spider bites: Most are mild, but bites from black widows or brown recluses require medical care.
- Bee, wasp, and hornet stings: Cause pain, swelling, and redness; they can be serious if you’re allergic.
- Fire ant stings: Known for aggressive, painful stings that may trigger allergic reactions.
While most bites are just irritating, some can become infected. Watch for:
- Increasing redness, swelling, or pain
- Warmth around the bite site
- Fever, chills, or body aches
These signs may indicate an infection that needs prompt treatment.
Preventing Bites & Treating Them at Home
To avoid bug bites:
- Use EPA-approved insect repellent
- Wear long sleeves and pants
- Check for ticks after being outdoors
- Eliminate standing water around your home
- Use screens or bed nets to keep bugs out
For minor bites and stings:
- Wash the area with soap and water
- Apply a cold compress to reduce swelling
- Use hydrocortisone cream or calamine lotion for itching
- Take OTC antihistamines if needed
- Avoid scratching to prevent infection
- Use tweezers to remove embedded ticks and clean the site afterward
When a Bug Bite Becomes an Emergency
Know when to skip home remedies and go straight to urgent care—or call 911.
Signs of a serious allergic reaction (anaphylaxis):
- Trouble breathing or swallowing
- Swelling of the face, lips, or throat
- Rapid heartbeat or dizziness
- Widespread hives
Other reasons to seek urgent care:
- Infection symptoms: increased pain, redness, swelling, warmth, or fever
- Tick bite: can’t remove the tick, develop a bulls-eye rash, or experience flu-like symptoms
- Spider bite: intense pain, blistering, nausea, or signs of a deep ulcer (especially from black widow or brown recluse spiders)
- Multiple stings: Can lead to a dangerous reaction, even if you’re not allergic
If symptoms don’t improve after a few days of home care, visit your nearest urgent care center for evaluation.
Travel Tips for Bug Bites & Stings
When traveling, you may encounter unfamiliar insects. Stay prepared:
- Pack a first-aid kit: Include antiseptic wipes, hydrocortisone cream, antihistamines, and tweezers
- Research local risks: Know what insects and diseases are common at your destination
- Act quickly: If symptoms develop, locate and visit a local urgent care clinic
Expert Care at Midwest Express Clinic
Midwest Express Clinic provides convenient, compassionate care for bug bites and stings. Our providers can:
- Remove ticks safely
- Treat infections
- Prescribe antibiotics, steroids, or antihistamines
- Administer tetanus shots—especially helpful before travel
With 50+ locations, walk-in availability, and extended hours, you can count on Midwest Express Clinic for prompt relief when you need it most.
👉 Find your nearest clinic at midwestexpressclinic.com/locations.
