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Good Afternoon I Was Bitten By A Red Ant A
Question: good afternoon I was bitten by a red ant a couple of weeks ago. it started as a red bump and I squeezed it which I probably shouldn't have. but it has become infected. I have been able to keep it clean and scabbing has started to form. I have used triple antibiotics and used aloe vera plant as a topic ointment as well. but the pain is what has become unbearable. I do take Advil for pain and was given ampicillin as an antibiotic 3 days ago. is there any thing else I can do besides all that I am doing now. since then I have put my foot in salt water an island remedy and it has eased up
Brief Answer:
Infection seems worsening. Cephalosporine group of antibiotics work better.
Detailed Answer:
Hello dear, welcome to Ask A Doctor service.
I read your query and here is my advice.
I would like to see a photo of the wound and if you can, upload it for me.
Using topic antibiotic ointment is right and for better effectiveness, you can use a Corticosteroid and antibiotic ointment such as Bethametasone and Gentamicin ointment.
As about oral antibiotics they are clearly needed since it is getting worse (unbearable pain), but I would prefer a cephalosporine group of antibiotic because they are more effective to a broad range of microorganisms. Cefixime would be better. Please discuss this with your doctor.
Also, keep the leg elevated and use ice over it.
Clear the bite side with soap and water and use Betadine (Povidone Iodine) for disinfection than use antibiotic ointment.
Also, the usage of antihistamines such as Cetirizine will help reduce swelling.
Hope I have answered the question.
Let me know if I can assist you further.
Infection seems worsening. Cephalosporine group of antibiotics work better.
Detailed Answer:
Hello dear, welcome to Ask A Doctor service.
I read your query and here is my advice.
I would like to see a photo of the wound and if you can, upload it for me.
Using topic antibiotic ointment is right and for better effectiveness, you can use a Corticosteroid and antibiotic ointment such as Bethametasone and Gentamicin ointment.
As about oral antibiotics they are clearly needed since it is getting worse (unbearable pain), but I would prefer a cephalosporine group of antibiotic because they are more effective to a broad range of microorganisms. Cefixime would be better. Please discuss this with your doctor.
Also, keep the leg elevated and use ice over it.
Clear the bite side with soap and water and use Betadine (Povidone Iodine) for disinfection than use antibiotic ointment.
Also, the usage of antihistamines such as Cetirizine will help reduce swelling.
Hope I have answered the question.
Let me know if I can assist you further.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Arnab Banerjee
Doctor I forgot to mention are these ointments and antibiotics ok as I am a dialysis patient?
Brief Answer:
Cephalosporines can be used but not antibiotic ointment
Detailed Answer:
Hello again. I see the photos you send me and you absolutely need antibiotics to treat it.
You can use ointments antibiotics since the wound is open but can use betadine to disinfect it.
You can use cephalosporines but in a lower dosage since you are in dialysis.
Cephalosporines can be used but not antibiotic ointment
Detailed Answer:
Hello again. I see the photos you send me and you absolutely need antibiotics to treat it.
You can use ointments antibiotics since the wound is open but can use betadine to disinfect it.
You can use cephalosporines but in a lower dosage since you are in dialysis.
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. Nagamani Ng
Answered by
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