Dangers from insect bites

[Medicine Man]

The importance of medical preparation and preventive medicine were brought home this week in albeit a minor way.

A few days ago I was stung or bitten by an insect on the inside of my upper arm, at the time I thought it was nothing and carried on. The next day I had a red itchy patch, so took some anti-histamine which calmed the itch. However the next day two thirds of my arm was swollen, red, itchy and painful. My elbow was stiff and I had pins & needles in my fingers.

The infection was probably introduced with the bite, however if I had cleaned and covered it at the time it might have stopped a secondary infection if one was present. As it was now obvious that something more sinister was going on I started taking Anti-inflammatory tablets and antibiotics both of which I had at home. 24 hours later it had calmed down considerable although was still red and slightly itchy.

If I hadn’t had those drugs the whole experience would have been a lot longer and more unpleasant as it was it was a minor inconvenience. It is possible that the infection could have spread to the lymphatic system in which case stronger drugs and possibly a stay in hospital would be required, not always possible in a disaster, survival or remote situation.

Possible complications from intreated insect/bite stings depending on where in the world you are include.

impetigo - a highly contagious bacterial infection that causes sores or blisters

cellulites - an infection that makes your skin red, swollen and painful

folliculitis - inflammation of one or more hair follicles

lymphangitis - an infection that causes red streaks in your armpit or groin and swollen lymph nodes

Lyme Disease leading to meningitis, facial palsy or encephalitis

West Nile Fever

Malaria

Anaphylaxis

[wolfpup]

Thanks Medicine Man - keep the warnings coming.