Once Bitten? Don’t be Shy for Speedy Relief

20/06/2025

Summer sees more of us enjoying the outdoors, whether that's walks, sports, our garden (or the pub garden!) But summer sun (and wet warmth) also brings out a whole host of critters that can bite, sting or irritate, as well as more exotic, unwanted holiday "souvenirs".

Ouch! What Was That?

From mild irritation to serious allergic reactions, being bitten is no fun. Here's some main culprits and signs to watch for:

• Midge and mosquito bites typically appear as small, itchy raised red lumps, often in clusters with surrounding redness.
• Fly bites, especially horseflies, can be painful, large, and may bleed, leaving a red, swollen area.
• Easily picked up from pets in warmer months, fleas feed on blood, causing itchy, irritating bites.
• Bees, wasps, and hornets can deliver painful stings and potential allergic reactions.
• Ticks, picked up from grassland and bracken, can transmit serious conditions in both pets and humans, like Lyme disease.
• British spider bites, usually acquired while gardening, can cause redness, pain and swelling, with more serious reactions from exotics.
• Some caterpillars have venomous hairs that can trigger itchy rashes and eye problems.

Take the Sting out of Summer

Precautions like wearing insect repellent, covering exposed skin, and avoiding standing water can help prevent bites and stings. For mild reactions, pop in for a wide range of over-the-counter creams which sooth irritation and reduce symptoms.

If you experience more intense symptoms, or a bite gets infected, it's important to get checked out, but you don't need to queue for a doctor's appointment or head for A&E.

Our trained pharmacists can advise and prescribe prescription medication if necessary for certain conditions. Through Pharmacy First, we can provide stronger medication and antibiotics on-the-spot, providing fast-acting relief for you to get on with your day.

Have a lovely midsummer, and keep an eye on our Facebook for more seasonal tips to keep everyone smiling, not swatting!