Common symptoms
What people often notice. Only a provider can tell you what’s causing yours.
- A red or darker bump at the bite site
- Itching, stinging, or pain
- Swelling around the bite
- A small blister or puncture mark
- Warmth around the area
Skin
Insect bites and stings: virtual care options
Most insect bites and stings, from mosquitoes, ants, bees, or spiders, cause a small itchy or painful bump that settles in a few days. Some cause larger local swelling, and a few can trigger serious allergic reactions or infection.
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What a virtual visit may involve
Care is decided by the provider, based on your situation.
- A video or online visit where a licensed provider asks what bit or stung you, if known, and how it has changed
- Sharing photos of the bite and surrounding skin
- A provider may recommend care steps or prescribe treatment if appropriate
- Guidance on signs of infection or a spreading rash to watch for
When in-person care may be better
Urgent care, your doctor, or a clinic can examine and test you.
- A tick bite followed by a rash, fever, or body aches
- The bite is getting more red, warm, or painful after a day or two
- A spider bite with a sore that is darkening or breaking open
- A young child with a bite that is very swollen
When to go to the ER
Call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room if you have:
- Trouble breathing, wheezing, or throat tightness after a bite or sting
- Swelling of the face, lips, or tongue
- Hives spreading across the body, dizziness, or fainting
- Severe muscle cramps, sweating, or pain spreading from a spider bite
- Many stings at once, or a sting inside the mouth or throat
Ready to explore a virtual visit for Insect bites?
Check availability, pricing, and care details directly with the provider. You’ll leave ER.com when you continue.
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Common questions
Insect bites, answered.
General information, not medical advice. A provider can answer questions about your situation.
Can a doctor look at a bug bite online?
Yes, a provider can often evaluate a bite from photos and your description in a virtual visit. They will tell you if it needs an in-person check.
How do I know if a bug bite is infected?
Redness, warmth, swelling, or pain that keeps increasing after a day or two, or pus, can mean infection. Red streaks or fever need prompt in-person or emergency care.
When is a bee sting an emergency?
Call 911 for trouble breathing, swelling of the face or throat, widespread hives, or dizziness after a sting. These can be signs of a severe allergic reaction.
This is not for emergencies.
For life-threatening symptoms, severe chest pain, trouble breathing, or immediate danger, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency department.