1. Causes and onset mechanisms of itching, redness, and swelling
The main symptoms of an insect bite are pain and itching, but other skin symptoms such as swelling, redness, and blisters may also occur. This is because insect saliva and toxin components act as antigens in the body and react with antibodies, causing an allergic reaction.
There are two types of allergic reactions: immediate and delayed. In the immediate type, symptoms such as itching, swelling, erythema, hives, and shock may occur immediately after being bitten, while in the delayed type, symptoms such as erythema, papules, and blisters may appear 1 to 2 days after being bitten. Symptoms may occur.
Allergy symptoms vary greatly from person to person, and symptoms appear differently from person to person. People with allergies are more likely to develop severe symptoms, so caution is required.
Insects that can cause skin irritation include blood-sucking mosquitoes, fleas, gnats, flies, ticks, nesting ants, wasps, biting spiders, centipedes, poisonous contact moths, and caterpillars. When your skin comes into contact with the poisonous hairs of poisonous moths, caterpillars, etc., you may experience hive-like symptoms or red rashes that are extremely itchy. If the itching is severe, scratching may worsen the symptoms and cause secondary infection from the affected area. Therefore, children need to be especially careful when scratching.
2. Symptoms of insect bites that respond to anti-itch medications
Stamine drugs are used to treat itching, and corticosteroids are used when inflammation is involved.
＞＞In the case of raw incisions and only itching
Topical drugs containing antihistamine ingredients are indicated.
＞＞In case of redness, swelling, and recurrent itching due to insect bites
Topical drugs containing corticosteroids are indicated.
＞＞For itching due to dry skin
Moisturizers listed as ”eczema and dermatitis treatments”are indicated.
＞＞Recommendation for medical examination
Visit a medical institution in the following cases.
If the affected area is severe, such as over a wide area (such as when there is severe dampness or sores)
If you are stung by a bee (you may experience shock symptoms, so seek medical attention immediately)
If the affected area has blisters, swelling, burning sensation, or strong pain
If you experience hives or discomfort all over your body after being bitten by an insect
If there is suppuration due to scratching
If the symptoms do not improve even after using the medicine for 5 to 6 days
3. Effects and characteristics of medicinal ingredients for insect bites and itching
Ammonia (ammonia water): Neutralizes formic acid, a poisonous component of ants, and has a detoxifying effect. Because it has a pungent odor, it is sometimes used as a reminder by giving it a light smell.
Antihistamine component <diphenhydramine, chlorpheniramine>: Suppresses skin itching by competitively antagonizing the H1 histamine receptor.
Corticosteroids (dexamethasone acetate, prednisolone valerate, etc.): Suppresses inflammation and relieves swelling, redness, itching, and pain.
Anti-inflammatory ingredient <salicylic acid>: Has the effect of suppressing pain caused by inflammation.
<Glycyrrhetinic acid> Has anti-inflammatory effects.
Local anesthetic ingredients <dibucaine, lidocaine>: Has a local anesthetic effect and suppresses the sensation of itching.
Antipruritic ingredient <crotamiton> : Contains an ingredient that suppresses itching.
Bactericidal disinfectant ingredients <chlorhexidine, etc.>: Suppresses infection and prevents wound deterioration through its bactericidal action.
Cold-feeling ingredients＜l-Menthol, d-camphoretc.＞: Gives a cooling sensation to the affected area and relieves itching.
Tissue repair ingredients＜Allantoin＞: Promotes granulation formation and promotes healing of the affected area.
Blood circulation promoting ingredients＜tocopherolacetic acidEsther＞: Improves blood circulation and promotes tissue repair.
Vitamin <breadTenor>: Promotes metabolism and prevents skin dryness.
4. Ingredients to choose and ingredients not to choose
>>Children
Must be used under parental supervision.
＞＞Pregnant woman
The safety of large-dose or widespread use of topical corticosteroids has not been established, so broad specifications are avoided.
>>Infected areas with chickenpox, athlete's foot, ringworm, etc., or suppurative areas
Do not use topical drugs containing corticosteroids, as they suppress the immune response and may worsen skin purulent infections caused by bacteria, fungi, viruses, etc.
5. Usage advice
＞＞Precautions for use
・Do not use topical drugs containing corticosteroids for a long period of time.
・Do not use on the eyes, around the eyes, or on mucous membranes. If it gets into your eyes, immediately rinse it with water.
Wash with warm water.
・Store in a cool place away from direct sunlight.
>>Be careful about the side effects of the following ingredients
General external medicines
Symptoms: Increased redness. It stings.
Countermeasures: Discontinue use and seek medical attention.
＞＞Points to note in daily life
Eliminate insects that cause mosquitoes, fleas, ticks, etc.
When going out, avoid exposing your skin and use insect repellent spray.
Children and infants should wear mittens or gloves to prevent scratching while sleeping.
Keep your skin clean to prevent secondary infections caused by bacteria, etc.
When gardening or weeding, wear rubber gloves that do not attract insects or toxic hair.
If you have had anaphylaxis in the past, or if you are at high risk of being stung by a bee at work, carry an EpiPen, an anaphylaxis supplement. To obtain an EpiPen, you need to visit a medical institution and get a prescription. Be careful when wasps are active and become especially aggressive.
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