Health Watch is a Public Service of the Office of News and Publications and is intended to provide general information only and should not replace the advice of a medical professional. You should contact your physician if you have questions about any of these topics.
One hazard of spending time outdoors in the summertime is exposure to biting and stinging insects. This week on Healthwatch, we'll talk about bug bites - what the risks are, how to treat them and how to prevent them.
The peak season for bug bites runs from around March to October, depending on the part of the country where you live. Doctors at UT Southwestern Medical Center at Dallas say most bug bites are easily treated at home and pose few risks beyond irritation.
But
Dr. Robin Carder, a UT Southwestern dermatologist, says some bites and stings can be more dangerous, especially for people who have allergic reactions. There's also a risk of secondary infection associated with bites.
Next on Healthwatch: the difference between itching and pain, and what that means.
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August 2005
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