Help! My 8-year-old was bitten by this strange bug, and I’m really worried.

When to Listen Deeper (Rare, But Worth Knowing)

In 10,000 earwig encounters, you might see one reaction needing care. Watch for:
 Within 1 hour:
 → Swelling larger than a quarter
 → Hives spreading to other areas
 → Trouble breathing or swallowing
→ Call 911. (This is anaphylaxis—not from earwigs, but from something else.)

 After 24 hours:
 → The spot grows red, warm, or oozes pus
 → Fever develops
 → Call your pediatrician. (This is infection—unrelated to the earwig.)

But for 99.9% of children?
The pinch fades before bedtime.
And by morning, it’s a story: “Remember the bug with the little claws?”