Safer Child Products

The other day, we were out at a friend’s backyard party.  I had forgotten to apply bug repellent before we left the house.  One woman in our group was using some non-topical bug repellent.  I’m not sure if it was battery operated, but it looked like it was.  Whether it was her repeller, or just sheer luck, I did not come out covered in bites, nor did my children.

However, we all have had those days when we are itchy and bumpy from what we assume are mosquito bites.  When should we be concerned?  Most of the time bug bites are no more than a minor nuisance and we should try to avoid scratching them.  Use some type of anti-itch cream or an over the counter anti-histamine if those do not help.  As long as your red/ puffiness does not extend over a large area, such as a full arm or leg, it’s probably fine.  It’s just a minor irritation.

There is a rare occasion when someone will have a more serious or life threatening reaction.  According to Dr. Leslie Barakat,“parents should seek medical care.....

• if the sting or bite is inside or near the mouth, if the child has a known history of severe reaction to a stinging or biting insect. 

• If they are having a severe reaction, such as swelling of the face or mouth, difficulty swallowing or speaking, chest tightness, wheezing, or difficulty breathing, or dizziness or fainting, parents should call 911 immediately and administer an Epinephrine pen if they have been prescribed one by their pediatrician.

• Parents should also seek medical attention for any insect bite or sting if the site looks infected, meaning that there is increasing redness, warmth, swelling, pain, or pus occurring several hours or longer after the sting or bites.”

For more tips on how to handle bug  bites and stings, go to http://kidshealth.org/parent/firstaid_safe/emergencies/insect_bite.html