TREAT SUMMER BITES AND STINGS

Summer is prime time for insect bites and stings. Most will heal on their own but it’s important to have an idea of what to do if your baby gets bitten or stung.

Remove the sting If a sting is visible, try scraping it off with a blunt, flat object, like a credit card or butter knife. Don’t use tweezers or your fingers as this will squeeze more venom into your baby’s skin and cause more irritation. Wash the area with soap and water once the sting has been removed and keep an eye on it in case an infection occurs. Keep things cold Place a cold compress on the site of the sting or bite to relieve swelling and itchiness. If you’re using an ice pack be sure to wrap it in a clean facecloth first.

Relieve the pain Ask your doctor or pharmacist for an ointment that will help relieve any discomfort or pain. Keep a tube of this in your first aid kit so that it’s handy in a situation like this.

When to worry The most serious reaction that can occur as a result of an insect bite or sting is anaphylactic shock. This is a severe allergic reaction and can have serious complications. Symptoms include a swollen face or neck, puffy eyes, blotchy skin and wheezing or difficulty breathing. If your baby goes into anaphylaxis, call for an ambulance and then loosen her clothing and lie her down on her side while holding her head lower than her body. Stay with her until the ambulance arrives.