How to Medicate Fire Ant Bites

Fire ants consist of over 280 stinging ant species that are usually found in tropical and subtropical America. Their diet consists of plant and animal materials, and their stings can be quite painful. A fire ant sting will turn into a red bump and then form into a white pustule after two or three days, after which they usually subside on their own. Bites can become infected if scratched frequently, which can lead to permanent scarring. Some people have an allergic reaction which can lead to nausea, severe chest pains, and loss of breath. Allergic reactions need to be treated immediately by a doctor as they can be life-threatening in some instances.

Things You'll Need

• Antibacterial soap
• Rubbing alcohol
• Hydrocortisone cream
• Antihistamines
• Bandage

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Instructions

• 1

  Remove any fire ants that are still on your body. Normally, more than one fire ant stings a person at once so make sure you've checked your body and clothes thoroughly.

• 2

  Wash the bite region thoroughly with antibacterial soap and water to reduce any chance of infection.

• 3

  Apply rubbing alcohol to the bite region. Hydrogen peroxide or betadine are also suitable antiseptic solutions if rubbing alcohol is not available.

• 4

  Apply a layer of hydrocortisone ointment to the bite region to help reduce the burning and itching sensation.

• 5

  Take oral antihistamines if the burning and itching continue to be bothersome. Put a bandage on the affected areas.

• 6

  Avoid squeezing or popping the bite pustule as this can cause further infection and permanent scarring. Repeat all steps three times per day until the bites have healed.