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Overview
Pustules form in a day.
Don't pop them.
When to get medical care
Call 911Trouble breathing or swelling.
Get care todayInfected bites.
See a doctor soonNot usually urgent.
Causes
Caused by fire ants.
OwieClear has pages on 1 condition that can cause fire ant bites. Each shows how soon to get care.
Common causes
- Fire ant bitesOften treated at home
Burning stings that turn into itchy white pustules within a day.
What you can do at home
- Wash.
- Cold compress.
Medicines
Antihistamines.
At the doctor
Diagnosed by exam.
Questions you may be asked
- Exposure
The exam
A skin exam.
Tests
- None
Prevention
Avoid mounds.
- Wear shoes
Check your symptoms
Most symptoms have more than one possible cause. The symptom checker looks at all of your symptoms together, plus your age, and shows how soon to get care.
Sources
Last updated 2026-11-13.