How To Deal With Minor Insect Bites and Stings

Handle any emergency with Howcast's First Aid app - howc.stExpand the description and view the text of the steps for this how-to video. Check out Howcast for other do-it-yourself videos from elunder and more videos in the First Aid category. You can contribute too! Create your own DIY guide at www.howcast.com or produce your own Howcast spots with the Howcast Filmmakers Program at www.howcast.com It's amazing how such little creatures can cause such serious discomfort. Follow these simple steps to properly tend to an insect sting or bite. To complete this How-To you will need: Soap Water An ice pack A damp cloth or towel Hydrocortisone cream, calamine lotion, or baking soda An antihistamine An object with a flat edge, such as a credit card or knife (optional) Warning: Call 911 if a victim appears to be suffering from a serious reaction to an insect bite or sting, which can include symptoms like light-headedness, disorientation, a skin rash, nausea, vomiting, disrupted breathing, swelling in the lips or throat, rapid heartbeat, or cramps. Step 1: Relocate Relocate to an area free from insects (so you won't get bitten or stung again!). Step 2: Scratch stinger off If there is a stinger, scratch or flick it off by using the flat edge of something like a credit card or the back of a knife blade. Tip: Flick, but never pull out a stinger—that can release more poison. Step 3: Wash area Wash the area with soap and water. Step 4: Apply ice pack Apply an ice pack to reduce swelling ...