How can I treat a worsening insect bite reaction?

Doctor's Answers 1

Insect bite reactions are due to the body's 'allergic' or hypersensitive response to the insect bites. The rash can became increasingly red, bumpy and itchy due to this increased sensitivity to the bites.

The bites can become infected and antibiotics are important to treat infection. However, topical steroid creams are often needed to help settle the inflammation. In severe cases, short courses of oral steroids may be required. You should consider seeing your doctor/dermatologist if your rash is worsening. Early treatment will help the rash settle quickly and prevent further worsening.

Similar Questions

What could be cause of my skin rash after giving birth?

Thanks for the very clear history and photographs. The red rash looks like a bruise and this is likely to be due to excessive pressure over the area, aggravated by the compression from the stripes which squeezes the enclosed areas. This will typically take 1 to 2 weeks to resolve. Blood tests are usually done to rule out underlying conditions like low platelets which may lead to increased susceptibilty to bleeding. I assume these tests were done and were normal. I would suggest wearing leotards without this stripe pattern so that there will not be added pressure to the skin.

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Answered By

Dr Colin Theng

Dermatologist

How long does pityriasis rosea take to clear up?

Thanks for the question. Pityriasis rosea is a condition that typically presents with scattered red rashes on the trunk and arms and thighs which may be scaly. The face is often spared in this condition. There is a herald patch, often a larger patch that appears before the rest of the rashes, but this is not seen in all cases of pityriasis rosea. The face is also a very unusual site to get the herald patch. So overall, it is really difficult to comment if your rash is truly pityriasis rosea without seeing your rashes.

Photo of Dr Colin Theng

Answered By

Dr Colin Theng

Dermatologist

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