Insect bites - swelling

[Murman]

I have recently started Ibrutinib last month and an insect bite close to my ankle has caused swelling. Does anyone else have in issue with swelling due to insect bites? Will this go away over time or is it necessary to let the medical team know?

[AussieNeil Administrator]

Keep a close eye on the swelling and consider drawing around the swollen skin, so you can quickly see if it is worsening. You may develop cellulitis, particularly if you are neutropenic. If you see a red streak going up your leg per this example, go to Emergency/ER.

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Neil

[Murman in reply to AussieNeil]

Thank you. No red marks just swelling and itchiness where the insect bit. Will keep a close eye on it.

[fapumpkin in reply to Murman]

Moises have always been rather partial to my blood, particularly when the weather is humid, even before I started Ibrutinib, so every morning I use insect repellent on my torso & legs so I can avoid nasty swollen itchy bumps!

[Psmithuk]

Every time I go outside (rural area) I return with insect bites In various places. I’ve always been inclined to get bitten but it is ridiculous this summer. Either I’m sweeter or they (biters) are more numerous/hungry/vicious! If it’s really bad I apply an ice pack, and then back to tea tree cream which gives me a few hours respite.

Keep a close eye on them as AussieNeil says. Good luck!

[lankisterguy Volunteer]

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There are 31 past discussions that mention insect bites here: healthunlocked.com/cllsuppo...

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Len

[NaturalWaze]

Exaggerated reaction to insect bites is common with CLL, as you will see in the links provided. It’s been happening to me since way before diagnosis. The area around the ankles is the worst for me; they fill with fluid and get horribly painfully uncomfortable. I have a prescription cream that I put on immediately now (I think it’s a steroid). Good luck!

[Provence]

I have had a terrible problem with insect bites ever since I have had CLL. I have become like a magnet to insects, they find me immediately when I go outside the house. Their bites swell, itch, become red and burning, throb, keep me awake at night and generally are extremely unpleasant. Mosquitoes are the worst but even smaller insects can bite and cause me much discomfort. So this is definitely something to watch! I use a cortisone cream, Bentonite clay mixed with drops of tea tree oil and lavender oil and have a whole array of preventative measures. There is mosquito proof clothing for instance and a range of products with the brand name Incognito, based on essential oils, which I find effective.

I hope your bit is a one off !

[Murman]

Thank you for your comments