AIBU to ask whether these bites need checking by a doctor?

10 replies

Bellaboo01 · 05/08/2026 10:44

I know this isnt an AIBU but, i am just posting here for traffic.

I have been bitten by something and i just wondered if anyone would know what it is and should i go to the Dr. One of them is on my hand and the other one is under my arm.

AIBU to ask whether these bites need checking by a doctor?

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OP posts:

Thelondonone · 05/08/2026 11:19

Swelling and blisters are normal. The area that is hot to the touch growing can be cellulitis but you’d know there was a problem.

Fatiguedwithlife · 05/08/2026 11:18

Hydrocortisone cream and an antihistamine should do it. Pharmacist will be able to treat or advise.

Loulou4022 · 05/08/2026 11:17

I have bad reactions to a bite every couple of years. They usually swell up and get very red and a little bit hard. I think official guidance is if larger than 10cm seek medical advice.
I use lavender oil and take Benadryl in the day and Piriton at night. And hydrocortisone cream too. Also keep them super clean!
The last bite I had 2 weeks ago shrank down as usual but then flared up again 2 days later so I popped to the pharmacy and they gave me antibiotics. I’m not sure whether this one was worse because I didn’t attack it first with lavender oil I used anthisan as someone at work had been raving about it or because I’d been in a hot tub without realising I’d been bitten as I don’t usually react till 24-36 hours later 🙄

Original poster

Bellaboo01 · 05/08/2026 11:12

CelticSilver · 05/08/2026 10:47

Depends if it was a polar bear or a midge.

Of course it wouldn't have been a Polar Bear!

OP posts:

Goldengirl123 · 05/08/2026 11:03

Take a photo and ask ChatGPT

YourRedLurker · 05/08/2026 10:59

Pics not approved yet, but probably only worth seeing a Dr if you think looks like/could be lymes disease, or it looks infected - continuously worsening/redness spreading beyond 1cm, discharging/crusting or you're unwell with it - but equally pharmacy first can manage ?infected insect bite.

WaterlooBridge · 05/08/2026 10:57

Is there a spreading infection from the bite site? If so I’d go the GP in case it’s a tick bite (often a bulls eye type rash) or is infected and needs antibiotics. Draw a line around the red edges now so you can see if it’s spreading.

Otherwise pharmacy for cream.

Original poster

Bellaboo01 · 05/08/2026 10:49

Sorry - the pics are being approved by Mumsnet! I think i might go to the pharmacist anyway!

OP posts:

CelticSilver · 05/08/2026 10:47

Depends if it was a polar bear or a midge.

7238SM · 05/08/2026 10:46

Are you in the Uk?
Did you put any cream on them or take an antihistamine?

I cant see any pics so maybe they are being approved.

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