Some people can be bitten by mosquitoes or any other of these irritating insects, and barely notice.  Others of us seem to suffer bizarre and extreme insect bite reactions.  There are several simple treatments which will alleviate some of the grief caused by these insects.

Oral Medication For Insect Bite Reactions

The most usual treatment for insect bite reactions is an antihistamine.  The mildest, over the counter antihistamine will usually reduce any swelling and itching.Any pain relief or anti-inflammatory drugs will not help at all.  So if that is all that is in your first aid box, it is time to go shopping.

Creams For Insect Bite Reactions

There are two primary types of cream for insect bites; antihistamine cream and antiseptic cream.  Antihistamine cream is not always easy to buy and antiseptic cream is not always effective, but both are worth a try and definitely better than nothing.

Cold Compresses For Insect Bite Reactions

This is my favorite, for many reasons.  Firstly, it is a great excuse to sit down and relax.  Secondly, it can be used by the whole family, and finally it can be used in conjunction with any of the above.  I found these great pain pads on the internet which can be used hot or cold (so super versatile in the first aid box).  

If you have a reaction insect bites, you simply put them in the fridge and then put them over the bite and the cooling effect takes away the itch.If you've children who suffer badly from bites these are a great way to take the fierceness out of the bite and to help stop them from scratching.

I bought a couple of these Pain Pads in blue and a couple in pink, and on holidays it is almost an enjoyable ritual to get the pain pad out of the fridge and put on the bites as soon as they are discovered.  These little pads have also helped with jelly fish bites, so they have proved a holiday essential for our family. If you do not have any pain pads you’ll be able to always try the traditional ice wrapped in a tea towel, but this calls for a lot more effort and the kids don’t seem to enjoy it as much.

Ultimately, prevention is always better than cure.  The best way to avoid insect bite reactions is to minimize the chance the insects have to get you.  Lots of long sleeves and trousers in cool linen are a wardrobe essential for anyone who suffers insect bite reactions.