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Definition
This article describes the effects of a fire ant bite.
Poisonous Ingredient
- fire ant venom
Where Found
Fire ants are found the southern United States and other areas that do not freeze in winter.
Symptoms
- body as a whole
- swelling around the site of bite
- pain at the site of bite
-
respiratory
- difficulty breathing (for those allergic to fire ants)
- heart and vessels
- rapid heart rate (for those allergic to fire ants)
- eyes, ears, nose, and throat
- swelling in the throat (for those allergic to fire ants)
- skin
- redness at the site of the bite
- itching at the site of the bite
- pustules (pus-filled blisters) that last 3-8 days
- possible decay of skin and formation of a scab at the area of the bite that lasts 3-10 days
Home Treatment
The best treatment is prevention where possible.
For those who have an allergy to insect bites or stings, it is important to carry a bee sting kit (which requires a prescription) and become familiar with how to use it if necessary.
Place ice (wrapped in a washcloth or other suitable covering) on the site of the bite for 10 minutes and then off for 10 minutes. Repeat this process. If the patient has circulatory problems, decrease the time to prevent possible damage to the skin.
After a bite, call Poison Control or a hospital emergency room for guidance if the person has an allergy to the insect. It may be necessary to go to the hospital if the reaction is severe.
Before Calling Emergency
Determine the following information:
- the patient's age, weight, and condition
- identification of the insect, if possible
- the time when the bite occurred
Poison Control, or a local emergency number
They will instruct you if it is necessary to take the patient to the hospital. See Poison Control centers for telephone numbers and addresses. If possible, bring the insect to the emergency room for identification.
What to expect at the emergency room
Some or all of the following procedures may be performed:
- Give prescribed medications by injection or orally
- Establish and maintain an airway if needed
- Treat the symptoms
Expectations (prognosis)
The sooner appropriate treatment is started, the better the outcome. Patients not allergic to fire ants should be completely fine in a few hours to a few days.
Reviewed By: Eric Perez, M.D., Department of Emergency Medicine, St. Luke's-Roosevelt Hospital Center, New York, NY. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
