Calm the itch and swelling of a common insect bite and watch for signs that need a doctor.
Clean the area gently with soap and water. This removes irritants and lowers the chance of infection from scratching.
Hold a cloth-wrapped ice pack or cool cloth on the bite for about 10 minutes. Cold numbs the itch and reduces swelling. Avoid placing ice directly on bare skin.
Dab on an over-the-counter anti-itch cream such as hydrocortisone, calamine lotion, or a baking soda paste, following the label. These calm the histamine reaction.
Try not to scratch, since it worsens the itch and can break the skin and cause infection. An oral antihistamine, taken as directed, may help with stubborn itching.
Call emergency services for trouble breathing, swelling of the face, lips, or throat, dizziness, or a fast spreading rash. See a doctor if the bite grows hot, red, and painful or oozes, which can mean infection.