Hello, Treat mild sting reactions by washing the affected area with soap and water and covering with a bandage. Applying ice can reduce the pain. Topical treatments include over-the-counter steroid creams to reduce pain and itch. Bites should go away in about a week. Scratching can cause the bites to become infected, in which case they may last longer. So don't scatch it . Swelling will subside by time don't worry.