Advanced First Aid Practice Exam 2026 - Free First Aid Practice Questions and Study Guide

Applying ice to a sting or bite reduces swelling by cooling the area, which makes the blood vessels constrict and slows the leakage of fluid into surrounding tissues. This limits the inflammatory swelling and dampens pain because nerve signals are slowed by the cold. Ice can also numb the area a bit, helping with discomfort. Use a barrier between the ice and skin and apply for about 10 minutes at a time, with breaks in between to avoid skin or nerve injury. It won’t thin the blood, and while it may help with the inflammatory itch by reducing swelling, it’s not a cure for itching by itself. If the swelling worsens, spreads, or you notice trouble breathing or other signs of a severe reaction, seek medical help promptly.