Bug Bites & Skin Infections

Spain's warm climate and outdoor lifestyle mean insect bites are a common occurrence—from mosquitoes on summer evenings to sandflies at the beach. While most bites cause only minor irritation, some can become infected or trigger allergic reactions that require medical attention. UrgentDoc's English-speaking doctors can assess your bite or skin concern via video consultation and provide the treatment you need.

Common Insect Bites in Spain

Different insects cause different reactions. Here's what to look out for:

Signs Your Bite May Be Infected

Our doctors can help if you notice any of these warning signs:

• Increasing redness – spreading beyond the original bite area, especially with defined borders
• Warmth and swelling – the area feels hot to touch and continues to swell
• Pus or discharge – yellow, green, or cloudy fluid draining from the bite
• Red streaks – lines extending from the bite toward the heart (sign of spreading infection)
• Fever or chills – systemic symptoms indicating the infection may be spreading
• Worsening pain – increasing tenderness rather than gradual improvement
• Swollen lymph nodes – tender lumps near the bite (groin, armpit, or neck)

Skin Infections We Treat

Beyond infected bites, our doctors can assess and treat various skin infections:

• Cellulitis – bacterial infection of deeper skin layers causing redness, swelling, and warmth
• Impetigo – contagious bacterial skin infection with honey-colored crusting
• Folliculitis – infected hair follicles appearing as red bumps or pimples
• Abscesses – painful, pus-filled lumps under the skin (may need in-person drainage)
• Wound infections – cuts, scrapes, or burns that have become infected
• Fungal skin infections – ringworm, athlete's foot, or other fungal conditions

How Our Consultation Works

Treatment Options

Treatment depends on the type and severity of your condition:

• Antihistamines – oral or topical medications to reduce itching and allergic reactions
• Topical corticosteroids – creams to reduce inflammation, swelling, and itching
• Oral antibiotics – for bacterial skin infections like cellulitis or infected bites
• Antibiotic creams – topical treatments for localized infections
• Antifungal treatments – for ringworm, athlete's foot, and other fungal infections
• Pain relief – recommendations for managing discomfort
• Wound care guidance – instructions for cleaning and dressing infected areas

First Aid for Bug Bites

While waiting for your consultation or for minor bites:

• Clean the area with soap and water
• Apply a cold compress to reduce swelling (15-20 minutes at a time)
• Avoid scratching—this increases infection risk
• Apply over-the-counter hydrocortisone cream or calamine lotion for itching
• Take an oral antihistamine (like cetirizine) if itching is severe
• For bee stings, remove the stinger by scraping sideways (don't squeeze)
• For tick bites, remove with fine-tipped tweezers, pulling straight up
• Keep the area clean and dry, and monitor for signs of infection

Preventing Bug Bites in Spain

Reduce your risk of bites with these preventive measures:

• Use insect repellent containing DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus
• Wear long sleeves and pants during dawn and dusk (peak mosquito hours)
• Use mosquito nets or screens, especially in rural areas
• Avoid standing water where mosquitoes breed
• Be cautious around food and drinks outdoors (attracts wasps)
• Check for ticks after hiking or walking through vegetation
• Use air conditioning or fans—mosquitoes struggle in moving air

When to Seek Immediate Care

Why Choose UrgentDoc for Skin Concerns?