BEAT THE BUG BITES

THIS week: Horsefly bites THESE large flies do not just pierce the skin, but rip it open, which is why their bites are so painful. The bite could bleed and become sore, then red lumps may develop around the area.

‘Try a weak over-the-counter steroid cream containing hydrocortisone,’ says Andrew Wright, professor of dermatology at the University of Bradford. ‘Don’t use too much as it can produce allergic reactions. Ibuprofen gel will help with swelling.’

If the fly was carrying parasites or bacteria that cause an infection, the bite can be extremely painful and the wound might ooze. If so, take an antihistamine tablet.

Pharmacist Angela Chalmers says: ‘Products such as Piriton contain chlorphenamine and have been found to work better with allergies as they won’t end up making you feel drowsy.’