How to treat insect bites on the eye

01/08/2024

Insect bites on the eye can be a painful and worrying experience. Although they are less common than bites on other parts of the body, when they do occur, they can cause a number of uncomfortable symptoms and, in some cases, lead to complications.

• Symptoms of insect bites on the eye can include:
• Inflammation and swelling around the eye.
• Redness of the eye and surrounding skin.
• Intense itching that can lead to scratching and aggravation of the condition.
• Excessive tearing due to irritation.
• Pain and tenderness in the affected area.
• Blurred vision in more severe cases.

Immediate first aid

• Wash your hands: Before touching the affected area, make sure your hands are clean to avoid introducing bacteria.
• ​​Rinse the eye with water: Use drinking water or a saline solution to gently rinse the affected eye. This can help remove any venom or residue left from the bite.
• Apply a cold compress: Place a cold compress on your closed eye to reduce swelling and relieve pain. Do not apply ice directly to the skin.
• Avoid rubbing or scratching: Although the itching may be intense, avoid rubbing or scratching your eye, as this can worsen the inflammation and increase the risk of infection.

Medical treatment

If symptoms persist or worsen, it is crucial to seek medical attention. Health professionals can provide more specific treatments, such as:

• Antihistamines: To reduce the allergic response and relieve itching.
• Corticosteroids: To reduce severe inflammation.
• Antibiotics: If there are signs of infection, such as intense redness, pus, or fever.
• Pain relievers: To manage pain.     

It is essential to consult an ophthalmologist if the sting affects the eye, they can identify and treat infections, severe allergic reactions, and other complications that may not be immediately apparent. Some of the most serious include:

• Eye infections: Such as periorbital cellulitis, which requires treatment with antibiotics.
• Conjunctivitis: Inflammation of the conjunctiva that may require specific medications.
• Uveitis: Inflammation of the uvea (of which the iris is a part) that can affect vision in the long term.
• Severe allergic reactions: Such as anaphylaxis, which is a medical emergency.

Insect bites that affect the eye can be more than just a nuisance, and it is crucial to treat them properly to avoid complications.

Dr. Alberto Lozano, ophthalmologist at the Barraquer Ophthalmology Centre