How to Tell If an Insect Bite Is Infected, and When to Get Help
Most of us shrug off an insect bite. A bit of itching, maybe some swelling, and within a few days it’s forgotten. But sometimes a bite does not settle the way it should, and it can be hard to know whether you are dealing with normal healing or something that needs treating. We see this often across Wembley and Stonebridge, especially in the warmer months. If you have been scratching your head over a bite that looks worse rather than better, here is how to tell the difference.
What Does an Infected Insect Bite Look Like?
An infected bite usually looks noticeably different from a normal one within a day or two. Redness spreads outward from the bite, the skin feels warm or increasingly sore, and you may notice pus or a yellow crust forming. Check a troublesome bite once or twice a day while it heals, since these changes tend to build gradually.
Other signs to watch for include:
- Redness spreading beyond the original bite mark
- Increasing pain, swelling or warmth
- Pus, discharge or crusting
- A fever, or feeling unwell
If any of these appear, it is worth getting the bite looked at rather than waiting to see if it clears up on its own.
Why Do Insect Bites Become Infected?
Bites usually become infected when the skin barrier is broken, most often through scratching. This lets bacteria that live naturally on the skin enter the wound, which then triggers the redness, swelling and discharge associated with infection. Bites in warm, moist areas, such as behind the knees or under clothing, can be more prone to this. People with certain skin conditions or a weakened immune system may also be more prone to infection.
How Is an Infected Insect Bite Treated?
Mild bites often settle with regular cleaning, an antihistamine for the itch and resisting the temptation to scratch. Once signs of infection appear, treatment usually needs to go a step further. Our pharmacists can assess bites under the NHS Pharmacy First infected insect bite service, and can prescribe antibiotic treatment where it is clinically appropriate, without you needing to see a GP first. Occasionally, a more severe infection needs referral.
When Should You Get Help for an Insect Bite?
Seek advice promptly if redness spreads beyond a few centimetres, the bite becomes increasingly painful, or you develop a fever. This also applies if the bite is near your eye or mouth, has not improved after two to three days, or you are pregnant, immunocompromised, or treating a young child. Left untreated, infections can occasionally spread further into the surrounding skin.
Get Insect Bite Advice in Wembley and Stonebridge
If your bite is not improving, there is no need to wait it out or guess what is normal. Our pharmacist led team offers fast assessment at both our Wembley and Stonebridge branches under the Pharmacy First service. Book an appointment today and let us take a proper look.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I treat an infected insect bite at home?
Mild bites can often be managed at home with cleaning and antihistamines. Once signs of infection appear, such as spreading redness or pus, it is best to have it assessed rather than treating it yourself.
How long does an infected insect bite take to heal?
With appropriate treatment, most infected bites improve within a few days. If there is no improvement after this, or symptoms worsen, seek further advice promptly.
Which insect bites are most likely to become infected?
Bites that are scratched frequently, or occur in warm, moist areas of the skin, are more likely to become infected. Keeping the area clean and avoiding scratching helps reduce this risk.
Should I go to A&E for an infected bite?
Most infected bites can be assessed by a pharmacist or GP. A&E is only needed if you have severe swelling, difficulty breathing, or symptoms of a more serious reaction.
Is Pharmacy First free for infected insect bites?
Pharmacy First consultations for infected insect bites are available on the NHS, subject to an assessment of your symptoms and suitability.