What are the treatments for insect stings and spider bites?
For insect bites that aren’t serious, the goal of treatment is simply to relieve discomfort. In the rare cases when bites cause a severe reaction, get medical help immediately. The discomfort of many insect bites can be soothed by an ice cube, a cold flannel, calamine lotion, a paste of baking soda and water or an over-the-counter hydrocortisone ointment. If you think you’ve been bitten by a venomous spider, seek medical help. A doctor may prescribe calcium gluconate for muscle pain, and a medication to relieve muscle spasms. A spreading wound from a necrotising spider bite should be surgically cleaned and repaired although surgery isn’t always required. Apply cold compresses but don’t apply ice. For any spider bite, be sure your tetanus immunisation is current.
