As the warm weather continues to bake Lincolnshire and the rest of the UK – the threat of a critter ‘invasion’ threatens to grow even more.
Thriving in the warm weather, many insects will be floating around these shores biting humans.
Now, a warning has been issued about the dangerous horsefly.
Otherwise known as clegs, they are renowned as having sharp jaws and having the ability to inflict a very painful bite.
Unlike midge bites, it can take much longer to recover from a horsefly bite because they cut into the skin rather than pierce it, which can cause the wound to become infected.
The bite is harmless to most, but they can cause dizzyness and make some weak. Luckily there is some advice for those who have been bitten.
What does a bite look like?
(Image: Hull Daily Mail)
The bites are painful and itchy.
Horsefly bites develop into large, red, itchy, swollen bumps within minutes.
What complications can it cause?
For most people they’re completely harmless, but they’re extremely uncomfortable, reports Manchester Evening News.
Some people also report feeling hot, weak, nauseous or dizzy.
An infected bite can result in redness, oozing, and extreme pain. Visit your GP if you’re suffering from an infection.
In exceptional cases some people can suffer an allergic reaction with symptoms including dizziness, wheezing, difficulty breathing, a blotchy skin rash and severe swelling that may be visible in your lips or tongue.
If you suffer any of these reactions, seek medical help immediately.
What should I do if I have been bitten?
Always visit your GP or local pharmacy for a professional opinion before using any products. You should never use multiple treatments without consulting your GP first.
If you are unfortunate enough to be bitten, then here is what the experts say you should do.
(Image: Getty Images)
For itching
Hydrocortisone cream is a treatment for Eczema, Dematitis and insect bites. It’s an over-the-counter cream that should ease itching and pain for minor bites.
However, the steroid cream should not be used on the face as it can make some conditions as acne and impetigo worse. If the bite is on your face visit your GP first.
You can buy Hc45 cream from Boots for £3.89 here
Antihistamines
Antihistamines are used for a number of things including allergies such as hayfever and conjunctivitis. It can also be used to treat insect bites if there is an allergic response.
Usually taken in the form of tablets, they can help with allergy relief. Brands such as Benadryl are some of the better known antisitamine options.
There is currently a sale on antinhistamines at online pharmacy Chemist 4 U , with up to 25% off Benadryl products.
(Image: Aukid Phumsirichat / EyeEm/Getty)
Crotamiton
Crotamiton is an ingredient in E45 cream, which is particularly effective on itchy skin and mosquito bites.
It can be used for mild horsefly bites and is available from all chemists and supermarkets at affordable prices. Boots currently has a selection of E45 products available online here
Pain relief
The experts at the NHS say paracetamol can be used to help with pain and discomfort related to a horsefly bite. Paracetamol is available in any chemist or supermarket and is over-the-counter so you won’t need a prescription.
Note children under 16 years of age should not be given aspirin.
Ibuprofen, like paracetamol, can be used to help with pain or discomfort from an insect bite.
You can get Ibuprofen gel over the counter to apply to the affected area. Boots currently has a max-strength 10% gel for £5.99 or as part of its 2 for £8 dea l on pain relief products.
