How to Treat Bites and Stings

Summer has arrived in County Durham, and with the sunshine comes the inevitable return of wasps, midges and other biting insects. Whether you’re enjoying a BBQ, picnic, or countryside walk, these uninvited guests are never far away.

Bites and stings needn't ruin your day, knowing how to treat them fast can make all the difference. 

Here's Help! First Aid Training's advice on how to deal with bites, stings, and even animal bites.

How to Treat Insect Stings

Stings from bees or wasps are usually felt instantly. For most people, they’re painful but not serious. However, some stings can trigger allergic reactions, especially if they occur in sensitive areas like the mouth or throat.

Common symptoms:

·       Sharp pain

·       Redness and swelling at the site

First Aid for Stings:

• If you can see the sting, scrape it away sideways with a fingernail or the edge of a credit card. Don’t use tweezers, as they may squeeze more poison into the skin.
• Raise the affected area and apply a cold compress or ice pack to reduce swelling
• For stings in the mouth, have the person suck on ice cubes or sip cold water.
• Continue this treatment for at least 20 minutes.

Monitor the casualty for signs of a serious allergic reaction, such as:

1. Difficulty breathing
2. Swelling of the face, lips, or throat
3. Dizziness or confusion

If symptoms worsen or you're concerned, call for medical help immediately.

How to Treat Insect Bites

Some people react more severely to insect bites than others. They may experience intense itching, swelling, and even blisters.

Preventive Tip: Use insect repellent when spending time outdoors to avoid bites and if you find something that works for you, stick with it.

First Aid for Insect Bites:

• Apply a cold compress or ice pack to relieve swelling.
• Avoid scratching the bite to prevent infection.
• Ask your pharmacist about antihistamines or creams to soothe itching.

Watch for signs of infection:

1. Increasing redness
2. Spreading swelling
3. Pus or discharge

Seek medical help if infection sets in or an allergic reaction develops.

How to Treat Animal Bites

Bites—whether from dogs, cats, horses or even humans—can be serious due to the risk of infection from bacteria in the mouth.

First Aid for Animal Bites:

• Wash the bite thoroughly with warm, soapy water.
• Raise and support the affected area and pat dry using clean gauze.
• Cover with a sterile dressing.

Watch for signs of infection, including:

1. Redness or swelling that spreads
2. Pain increasing at the site
3. Discharge of fluid or pus
4. Fever or flu-like symptoms

All animal bites and deep wounds should be assessed by a medical professional.

Be Prepared – Learn First Aid in County Durham

Dealing with bites and stings is easier when you know what to do. At Help! First Aid Training, we offer a wide range of first aid courses, both at our training facility in The Shildon Business Centre and at workplaces across the North-East.

Our popular courses include:

·       First Aid at Work

·       Emergency First Aid at Work

·       Paediatric First Aid

·       Basic Life Support

Whether you're an employer, parent, carer, or outdoor enthusiast, our hands-on training helps you feel confident in an emergency.

💡 CITB grants may cover up to 70% of your course cost if you work in construction—ask us for details!

Book Your Training Today

Ready to learn life-saving skills? Contact our friendly team today to find the right course for you.

Visit us at www.helpfirstaidtraining.co.uk
 Email: info@helpfirstaidtraining.co.uk
 Call: 01388 417303