Nothing derails a fun day outdoors faster than a bug bite. One moment, you’re enjoying time outside with family or friends; the next, you’re dealing with itching and swelling. Whether it’s a mosquito in summer or a surprise flea bite indoors, bug bites are an annoying reality for many Nebraskans.
This guide provides guidance on identifying common bites, what to put on bug bites for fast relief, and when to visit a medical professional.
Common Bug Bites in Nebraska
Nebraska’s climate supports insect activity throughout the year, especially in warmer months. The following are some of the biting insects and arachnids you’re likely to encounter in the state.
Mosquitoes
Mosquitoes are particularly active from late spring through early fall. Their bites usually appear as raised, itchy welts that may last several days. In rare cases, mosquitoes can transmit viruses such as West Nile.
Ticks
Found in grassy, wooded, and brush-covered areas, ticks attach themselves to the skin and feed on blood over hours or even days. Certain species can transmit serious illnesses like Lyme disease and Rocky Mountain spotted fever. After any tick bite, prompt removal and monitoring for symptoms such as rash and fever are important.
Bed Bugs
These small, reddish-brown insects hide in bedding, furniture, and carpet, often going unnoticed until bites appear. While they don’t spread disease, the itching can be intense and persistent.
Fleas
Commonly carried by pets, fleas can also bite humans, typically around the ankles, lower legs, and waistline. The bites are small, red, and extremely itchy, often surrounded by a halo of redness.
Spiders
Most spider bites in Nebraska are mild and may go unnoticed until redness or slight swelling appears. However, some species like the brown recluse (present in eastern Nebraska) and the black widow (rarely present in eastern Nebraska) can cause more worrying symptoms, including muscle pain, fever, and tissue damage. Identifying the spider (don’t smash it) when possible and seeking medical care if symptoms worsen can help prevent serious complications.
Symptoms To Watch For
Most bug bites are nothing to worry about and heal within a few days. However, symptoms can vary in type and severity based on the type of insect and the bitten individual’s immune response.
The following are some general symptoms of bug bites:
- Redness and swelling around the bite
- Itching or burning sensation
- Small blisters or bumps
- Skin warmth around the affected area
- Pain or tenderness at the site of the bite
- Bruising or darkened skin (more common with spider or tick bites)
- Rash or welts that spread beyond the bite site
Some symptoms may point to a developing infection or allergic reaction. If you experience any of the following complications, it’s best to seek medical attention promptly:
- Pus or fluid leaking from the bite
- Fever, chills, or general malaise
- Increased redness or a spreading rash
- Swelling of the face or lips
- Hives
- Difficulty breathing
What To Put On Bug Bites
If a bite is itching or swollen, treating it early can ease discomfort and prevent complications. Here are some safe, effective, and accessible options:
- Hydrocortisone Cream: A 1% hydrocortisone cream is commonly used to reduce redness, swelling, and itching. Apply a thin layer to the bite area up to three times daily.
- Calamine Lotion: Calamine helps relieve itching and irritation, especially from mosquito bites. It’s also used to dry out blisters.
- Cold Compress: Applying a cold, damp cloth or ice pack wrapped in a towel can help reduce swelling and temporarily numb itching.
- Aloe Vera: Natural aloe vera gel has anti-inflammatory properties that may ease discomfort and support skin healing.
Oral medications like diphenhydramine (Benadryl) and loratadine (Claritin) can further reduce itching and swelling associated with allergic reactions.
In addition, it’s important to avoid scratching bug bites. As tempting as it may be, scratching can break the skin and introduce bacteria, increasing the risk of infection. Keeping your nails trimmed and using the treatments listed above can help reduce the urge to scratch.
What To Put On Bed Bug Bites
Bed bug bites often appear as clusters or lines of red bumps on exposed skin. These bumps have dark spots at the center and can form fluid-filled blisters.
Here’s what to put on bed bug bites to relieve itching:
- First, wash the area with soap and warm water to remove any irritants and reduce the chance of infection.
- Apply calamine lotion or hydrocortisone cream to reduce itching and inflammation.
- You may also apply an over-the-counter topical analgesic gel containing diphenhydramine to address itching caused by an allergic reaction.
How To Prevent Bug Bites
Minimize your chances of being bitten. Follow these tips on how to prevent bug bites to protect your skin and your peace of mind:
- Use Insect Repellent: Wondering, “What can I put on my body to prevent bed bug bites?” DEET products like insect repellent sprays work against insects, including mosquitoes, ticks, no-see-ums, and fleas.
- Wear Protective Clothing: Long sleeves, pants, and socks can help protect skin when you’re outdoors, especially in wooded or grassy areas.
- Install Screens: Ensure windows and doors have intact screens to keep mosquitoes and other flying insects out of your home.
- Keep Bedding Clean: Regularly wash sheets, pillowcases, and blankets in hot water to help prevent bed bugs and dust mites. Drying bedding and towels in a tumble dryer will kill almost all parasites.
- Treat Pets for Fleas: If you have cats or dogs, ensure they’re on a flea prevention plan.
When To Visit Urgent Care
While most bug bites are harmless, there are times when it’s safer to get medical attention. Visit urgent care if:
- You notice signs of infection, such as pus, spreading redness, warmth, or swelling that worsens over time.
- You experience a severe allergic reaction, including difficulty breathing, facial swelling, or rapid heartbeat.
- The bite doesn’t improve after several days, or the symptoms interfere with your daily activities.
- You’re concerned about a tick bite and need help removing it or want to discuss disease risk.
At Urgent Care Clinic of Lincoln, we can provide detailed answers to questions, like “What can I put on my body to prevent bed bug bites?” We can clean and evaluate your bites, prescribe stronger creams or antibiotics if needed, and help manage allergic reactions. We also guide you on the next steps, whether it’s to continue treatment at home or seek care from an immunology or allergy specialist.
Get Prompt Professional Attention for Bug Bites
With the right care, most bites heal quickly and without lasting issues. When at-home treatments aren’t working as they should, it’s best to seek medical attention.
Urgent Care Clinic of Lincoln offers walk-in treatment for insect bites, allergic reactions, skin infections, and other minor medical issues. Our team is experienced, efficient, and focused on helping you feel better as soon as possible. Drop by during clinic hours when you need care — no appointment needed. You may also contact us for more information about our services.