Scratching bug bites may provide temporary relief, but it can worsen symptoms and increase the risk of infection, according to Dr. Abinash Achrekar.
Calming the Itch
To calm the itch without scratching, Achrekar recommends hydrocortisone cream, calamine lotion, oatmeal baths, or creams containing menthol. These remedies can help break the itch-scratch cycle and promote faster healing.
Achrekar said most bug bites improve on their own, but certain symptoms may require medical attention. If the redness keeps spreading, you notice pus, you develop a fever, or the itching lasts for weeks or comes with a widespread rash, it’s time to get checked.
Original reporting: KOAT Albuquerque — read the source article.
