Medical Advice >> Pediatric Advisor
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What are insect bites?

Insect bites cause itchy, red bumps. Some bites are painful.

How can I take care of my child?

If the bite is itchy:

• Put calamine lotion or a mixture of baking soda and water on the bite.
• If it is very itchy, put on 1% hydrocortisone cream. You can get this cream at the drug store.
• Put firm, direct, steady pressure on the bite for 10 seconds. Use your fingernail or pen cap.

If the bite is painful:

• Rub the bite with a cotton ball soaked in meat tenderizer and water for 20 minutes. This will help the pain. Don't use meat tenderizer near the eye.
• If you don't have any meat tenderizer, use baking soda and water.
• Give acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil) to help the pain.

How can I protect my child from insect bites?

• Put a little insect repellent on clothing or skin before your child goes outdoors.
• Don't put any repellent on the hands or on a sunburn or rash.
• Make sure your child does not use more than 3 or 4 drops of the repellent.
• Wash repellent off after your child comes indoors.

Call your child's doctor right away if:

• A bite looks infected. You may see red streaks. It may feel more tender.

Call your child's doctor during office hours if:

• The bite still itches or is very painful even after it has been treated.
• You have other questions or concerns.

This content is reviewed periodically and is subject to change as new health information becomes available. The information is intended to inform and educate and is not a replacement for medical evaluation, advice, diagnosis or treatment by a healthcare professional.