You probably don’t think twice about a mosquito or ant bite. It’s the thing you scratch once or twice and never think about again. However, sometimes an insect bite doesn’t go away and can actually get worse. It’s possible for bacteria to get under the skin and cause an infection, and when that happens, Amory Urgent Care is open seven days a week to help you get it resolved.
How mosquito bites can lead to a skin infection
It’s unpleasant to think about, but mosquitoes inject saliva into your skin when they bite. Your immune system triggers the itching and mild swelling most people experience when they’re bitten.
The problem starts when scratching breaks the skin open. Bacteria that normally live harmlessly on the surface can get underneath the compromised outer layer and start an infection called cellulitis, which affects over 14 million Americans each year, according to JAMA.
Some face a higher risk than others, including:
- People living with diabetes
- Older adults with compromised immune systems
- Anyone with circulation troubles
In Mississippi’s summer months, the heat and humidity create an especially favorable environment for skin infections to worsen. The sooner it’s seen by a provider at Amory Urgent Care, the better your chances of stopping that from happening.
Fire ant bites and the risk of infection
Red fire ants are the bane of Mississippi. They like to swarm you, often bite multiple times at once and cause an immediate, burning pain. Your body usually develops blisters in response; most people improve within 48 hours without needing further intervention.
Yet any damage to the skin barrier poses a risk of infection. Once bacteria get into your system — scratching the bite area one too many times can cause this — an infection can rapidly set in.
The Cleveland Clinic warns it could be an infection if you notice:
- Redness spreading beyond the original bite area
- Skin that feels hot to the touch
- Swelling that grows instead of fading
- Pus or unusual discharge from the wound
Children are especially prone to infection since they’ll often scratch more aggressively and are less likely to keep the area clean. If your child’s fire ant bites are looking worse rather than better after a day or two, it’s worth bringing them in.
Recognizing the signs that a bite has turned serious
A normal bite gets better over time, whereas an infected one doesn’t. Pay attention if the bite doesn’t improve within that 48-hour window. If the redness goes down or the discomfort eases off, you’re probably in good shape.
Fever, chills or swelling along your glands aren’t normal reactions to a bite. They’re signs that the infection has progressed to where oral antibiotics are needed. Pay attention to any red lines radiating from the bite wound; this suggests the infection is advancing into surrounding tissue.
Come to Amory Urgent Care if you notice any of these changes.
How we evaluate and treat infected bites at Amory Urgent Care
At Amory Urgent Care, we evaluate skin concerns, including infected bites, on a walk-in basis any day of the week. We’ll ask you about your symptoms, when you first noticed the bite and how it’s changed since then. After that, we will thoroughly inspect the area.
If antibiotics are necessary, the doctor will prescribe them before you leave. Additionally, we’ll offer detailed instructions for at-home bite care, which will include hygiene practices and observation for any emerging conditions.
You don’t need an appointment to be seen at our clinic. If the infection seems to have spread extensively or doesn’t improve with treatment, we can refer you to a higher level of care.
Walk in when a bite gives you trouble
A bite that keeps getting worse instead of better deserves a closer look. Skin infections from mosquito and fire ant bites are common in Mississippi. Catching the condition early allows for effective treatment.
Walk into Amory Urgent Care at 906 Hwy 278 any day of the week. You don’t need an appointment, and we’ll get you seen and on your way.
Come see us if a mosquito or ant bite is bothering you.