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What Causes Redness And Itching On The Arm After An Insect Bite?
Question: I have what appears to be a series of insect bites on my arm. It's itcy and red. What concerns me is that the whole area is hot to the touch. It's been like this since I got up this morning. Is this anything to be concerned with?
Brief Answer:
infection or inflammation can cause symptoms
Detailed Answer:
HI, thanks for using healthcare magic
Heat is part of the body's inflammatory response. It can occur in simple inflammation/irritation of the area or can also occur with infection (cellulitis)
IF the warmth is occurring within 24 hours after the bite then it is likely due to inflammation only , if it is occurring after this point or started at 24 hours and it is continuing, then infection is possible
Infection is especially likely if you have other symptoms such as fever, loss of appetite, decreased energy, malaise (feeling bad).
Inflammation can be treated with anti inflammatory meds such as naproxen, cataflam or ibuprofen ,even if it is not painful
Infection would require antibiotics.
If the bites and the increased warmth occurred in the past 24 hours, you can consider monitoring and using the meds mentioned.
IF it has lasted longer or started after a long period of time or you have systemic symptoms (fever, loss of appetite, decreased energy, malaise), then you should see your doctor as soon as possible
I hope this helps, feel free to ask any other questions
infection or inflammation can cause symptoms
Detailed Answer:
HI, thanks for using healthcare magic
Heat is part of the body's inflammatory response. It can occur in simple inflammation/irritation of the area or can also occur with infection (cellulitis)
IF the warmth is occurring within 24 hours after the bite then it is likely due to inflammation only , if it is occurring after this point or started at 24 hours and it is continuing, then infection is possible
Infection is especially likely if you have other symptoms such as fever, loss of appetite, decreased energy, malaise (feeling bad).
Inflammation can be treated with anti inflammatory meds such as naproxen, cataflam or ibuprofen ,even if it is not painful
Infection would require antibiotics.
If the bites and the increased warmth occurred in the past 24 hours, you can consider monitoring and using the meds mentioned.
IF it has lasted longer or started after a long period of time or you have systemic symptoms (fever, loss of appetite, decreased energy, malaise), then you should see your doctor as soon as possible
I hope this helps, feel free to ask any other questions
Note: Hope the answers resolves your concerns, however for further guidance of skin related queries consult our Dermatologist.Click here to book a consultation
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
Answered by
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