whats the best thing to treat fire ant bites?

Answer 1

You can use calamine lotion, ice cube placed over the sting reduces the pain. A cream containing a combination of of an antihistamine, an analgesic, and a corticosteroid is often useful.

If the bites are severe and the area is very red and swollen and burns, you may want to go to the emergency room and get a shot of antihstamine or corticosteroid to speed of the relief.

Take care,

Clinical Psychiatrist, France

Answer 2

I have been told that vinegar immediately after the bite helps alleviate the symptoms that occur post-bite. I would recommend leaving the "pustule" (it is not pus-filled although it sure looks like it) open to air and clean the site twice a day with a light mixture of soap and water. Other than a possible infection secondary to the exposed area of skin the most you should have to worry about is a scar.

You may also consider over-the-counter benadryl to reduce swelling. Be aware the this drug does make some people drowsy.

If you have difficulty breathing after this or any bite it warrants a visit to the ER- immediately.

Answer 3

Try making a paste from baking soda and water. As it dries it will help pull out some of the ant venom and heat from the bite swelling. It works best when applied immediately after, but can be beneficial with repeated applications for days old bites too. It works well with other bugs bites/stings and sunburns too.

Answer 4

benadryl works best.. however I've been known to soak in a tepid bath with a cup of Borax added in it at times

Answer 5

Oh they hurt. I use calamine lotion.

Answer 6

try spray them with wd40.

Answer 7

Vinegar.........or camphor! Feel better!