Pus in a bite is caused by a bacterial infection. Almost any bite, such as a human bite, spider bite, or other insect bite, can cause an infection and subsequent pus. In addition, wounds of this nature can cause pain, redness, swelling, and an increase in skin temperature over the affected area. Other symptoms of a bite can include muscles cramps, nausea, dizziness, and rash.
Sometimes, severe symptoms can occur as the result of bites, including fever, elevated blood pressure, and extreme anxiety. Getting bit by a poisonous insect or snake causes venom to become introduced to the blood stream, and is a medical emergency. Although pus in a bite may occur, it is generally a later symptom. The bite of a black widow spider can cause chest pain, shortness of breath, and even cardiac abnormalities. Tissue death can also occur, which is commonly referred to as gangrene.
Human and animal bites can also lead to infection, including rabies. In addition, cat bites have a higher rate of infection than other animal bites because their teeth are very sharp and can reach into the deep layers of the tissue. A serious infection known as cellulitis can also occur as the result of a bite. Symptoms of cellulitis include red streaks near the bite site, inflammation, pain, and pus in the bite.
Treatments for bites include cleaning the wounds with soap and warm water to remove as much bacteria as possible. In addition, taking over-the-counter medication to relieve pain and swelling also helps minimize symptoms. If the bite is bleeding, applying pressure until the bleeding stops is also important, as is the application of an antibiotic ointment. If pus begins to form, the health care provider can prescribe topical or oral antibiotics.
When pus in a bite occurs, it can be mixed with a small amount of blood, giving the pus a pink tinge. In addition, the color of pus can be white, yellow, or green. In some cases, pus can be very dark, have a foul odor and have a very thick consistency. The wound should never be lanced by the bite victim himself, because this can cause a worsening of symptoms, and might even lead to a serious blood infection.