Most bug bites can be treated at home. Hydrocortisone cream and topical/oral antihistamines work quickly to reduce swelling and itching. However, if a scab looks infected, or if a bite’s swelling does not reduce within several days of the initial...
Bug bite reactions occur when a body is allergic to an insect’s saliva and when the bug’s secretions enter the bloodstream. Depending on the insect you encountered, a bite will often cause a small, red bump, or localized hives (one...
For all the times, you’ve been bitten while hiking or camping or watching a little league game, it’s easy to think that there are more insects in Colorado than other places. While there are hundreds of insect species commonly found...
The most common bites and stings come from mosquitoes, spiders, bees, wasps, hornets, ants, ticks, mites, chiggers, gnats, and bed bugs. Even if you weren’t able to catch the bug, you might have at least caught a glimpse. This helpful...
We all know how to treat mild- to moderate sunburns—plenty of water, a cold shower, and consistent application of topical ointments and aloe vera. These practices are so well-known in our sunny climate that you’d be hard-pressed to find a...
In the last few years, there’s been a lot of ink spilled about the wisdom of using sunscreen with certain chemicals. Depending on who you ask, sunscreen is either one of the most basic, no-brainer health decisions a person can...
In the Mile High City, we’re already at a higher altitude, but a short drive away puts you in the heart of the Rocky Mountains and elevations between 12,000-14,000+ feet. Along with world-class skiing, climbing, hiking, rafting, and other alpine...
Because bacteria multiply faster in the heat and because food handling gets complicated, food poisoning is more common during the summer. This doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy your summer BBQ, but you need to continue to follow food safety practices...
The quick answer is pretty much never. Heat stroke is an acute-onset, life-threatening medical emergency. Dial 911 or local emergency services and cool the person down with whatever means are available—starting with getting the person out of the sun and...
At first glance, you might not think of Colorado as a high-risk place for heat stroke and other heat-related illness. While it may not compare to some of the hottest and most humid places in the United States, the unique...
