Insect Bite Treatment: What to Do If You're Bitten at Home or Abroad

As Irish people jet off on summer holidays or enjoy more time in nature, insect bites become a seasonal annoyance — and sometimes, a medical concern. While Ireland itself isn't known for swarms of biting insects, many people experience bites while travelling abroad to warmer climates. Others may come into contact with ticks or midges while hiking, camping, or gardening at home.

Whether you've been bitten by a mosquito in Spain, a sandfly in Thailand, or a midge in the west of Ireland, it's essential to know how to treat insect bites, how to spot signs of infection, and when to get help from a GP. With GP24.ie, you can access a doctor online 24/7, wherever you are — at home or away.

Why You're More Likely to Be Bitten While Abroad

Insect bites are far more common when travelling to hotter or more humid countries, where mosquitoes, sandflies, and other tropical insects thrive. European destinations like Spain, Portugal, Italy, and Greece all have active mosquito populations, especially during summer evenings. If you're venturing further afield to Southeast Asia, South America, or Africa, the risk increases significantly — not just for irritation but for diseases like dengue or malaria in some regions.

By contrast, Ireland has relatively few biting insects. You may encounter midges (especially in the west or in boggy areas), ticks (in wooded or grassy areas), or the occasional wasp or flea bite. These are usually harmless but can still cause discomfort or, in rare cases, infection.

Insect Bite Treatment: First Steps

If you've been bitten by an insect, acting quickly can prevent further irritation or complications. Here's what to do:

1. Gently clean the area with soap and water.

2. Apply cold compresses to reduce swelling and soothe the itch.

3. Avoid scratching, even if it's tempting — this breaks the skin and increases infection risk.

4. Use over-the-counter creams such as antihistamines or mild corticosteroids to soothe the area.

If the bite becomes very itchy, red, or swollen, continue monitoring it and consider consulting a GP — especially if it doesn't improve within a few days.

How to Make a Bug Bite Stop Itching

Itching is one of the most frustrating aspects of insect bites. To manage it effectively:

  • Place a cool, damp cloth or an ice pack on the bite area multiple times a day.

  • Use antihistamine tablets or creams to reduce allergic response.

  • Consider natural remedies like aloe vera gel, tea tree oil, or calamine lotion for mild bites.

  • Keep the area clean and moisturised — dry skin can make the itch worse.

It's also a good idea to keep nails short and cover the bite if possible to prevent scratching in your sleep.

Is Sudocrem Good for Insect Bites?

Sudocrem, a household favourite across Ireland, can offer mild relief from insect bites. While it doesn't contain antihistamines or steroids, its zinc oxide content helps soothe irritation, reduce redness, and protect the skin.

Sudocrem may not stop severe itching, but it can:

  • Act as a barrier cream to protect the bite

  • Prevent infection in broken skin

  • Offer some relief if nothing else is available

Sudocrem is a useful option for children or individuals with sensitive skin, although stronger creams may be necessary for more persistent discomfort.

Insect Bite and Cellulitis: Know the Signs

In some cases, especially if a bite is scratched repeatedly or becomes dirty, a bacterial infection can develop. In some cases, a bite can lead to cellulitis — a serious infection that impacts the skin’s deeper layers and surrounding tissue.

Signs of Cellulitis from an Insect Bite:

  • Increasing redness, swelling, and warmth around the bite

  • Tenderness or pain that gets worse instead of better

  • Fever, chills, or feeling generally unwell

  • Skin that appears tight, shiny, or hot to the touch

Cellulitis is not something to wait and see — it usually requires oral antibiotics. If you suspect an infected bite, contact GP24.ie immediately. Our GPs can assess your symptoms online and arrange a prescription if needed — even if you're on holiday abroad.

What Are 3 Signs of an Infected Bite?

If a bite becomes infected, it won't heal normally. Watch for these three key signs:

1. Pus or yellow discharge

2. Redness or swelling that spreads

3. Increasing pain or heat, possibly accompanied by fever

If any of these appear, seek medical help. It's essential for those with diabetes, weakened immune systems, or circulation issues, as infections can worsen quickly.

What Does an Abnormal Bite Look Like?

Most bites are harmless red bumps. However, some bites should raise concern. An abnormal insect bite might:

  • Have a dark centre or become black (indicating tissue damage)

  • Develop a bullseye pattern (possible sign of a tick bite and Lyme disease)

  • Turn into a blister or open sore

  • Grow in size rapidly or become increasingly painful

Always photograph an unusual bite to monitor changes — or to show your GP during a consultation.

Tips to Prevent Insect Bites (Especially When Travelling)

To reduce your risk of getting bitten — particularly abroad — follow these tips:

  • Use insect repellent with DEET, picaridin, or lemon eucalyptus oil

  • Choose long sleeves and trousers in the evening to reduce the risk of insect bites

  • Sleep under a mosquito net if needed

  • Avoid standing water, where mosquitoes breed

  • Keep windows and doors closed or screened

If you're travelling to a high-risk area, talk to a GP about vaccinations or malaria tablets beforehand.

Conclusion

Insect bites are usually nothing more than a minor irritation — but they can become serious if ignored, especially when travelling. Knowing how to treat them properly, recognise infection early, and access care wherever you are is key to staying safe and comfortable.

With GP24.ie, you have access to experienced Irish-based GPs 24 hours a day, 7 days a week — perfect for peace of mind whether you're in Donegal or Dubai. If you're ever unsure about a bite or need treatment, we're just a video call away.

Need fast, reliable insect bite advice?

Visit GP24.ie today to speak to a GP — anytime, anywhere.

 

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Rachel Gilmartin