How do mosquito and spider bites differ in appearance. What are the main symptoms of each type of bite. When are you more likely to encounter mosquitoes versus spiders. How can you tell if a bite is from a mosquito or spider.

Seasonal Patterns of Mosquito and Spider Activity

Understanding when you’re most likely to encounter mosquitoes versus spiders can help narrow down the culprit behind a mysterious bite. Mosquitoes and spiders have distinct seasonal patterns that affect when bites typically occur.

Mosquito Season

Mosquitoes thrive in warm, humid conditions. Their activity peaks during spring and summer in most regions. In year-round humid climates, mosquitoes may remain active throughout the year. However, in areas with distinct seasons:

• Mosquito populations surge in spring as temperatures rise
• Activity is highest during summer months
• Populations decline in fall as temperatures drop
• Most adult mosquitoes die off in winter

Male mosquitoes have very short lifespans, typically dying soon after mating. Females can live for several weeks up to a couple of months in ideal conditions. While some mosquitoes may hibernate, it’s primarily the eggs that survive through winter to hatch when warm weather returns.

Spider Activity Patterns

Unlike mosquitoes, spiders remain active year-round in most areas. However, their visibility and encounters with humans often follow a different pattern:

• Spiders are present indoors and outdoors throughout the year
• They become more noticeable in homes during fall as temperatures drop outside
• Many species seek shelter indoors as their outdoor habitats change
• Indoor spider sightings often increase in autumn and winter

Is a winter bug bite more likely from a spider or mosquito. In most regions, winter bites are far more likely to come from spiders, as mosquito populations have typically died off by this time.

Frequency and Pattern of Bites

The number and distribution of bites can provide valuable clues in distinguishing between mosquito and spider bites. These pests have very different feeding behaviors that result in distinct bite patterns.

Mosquito Bite Patterns

Mosquito bites often appear in clusters or lines across exposed skin. This is due to several factors:

• Female mosquitoes feed multiple times over several days
• They may bite repeatedly in a single feeding session
• Multiple mosquitoes may bite the same person in mosquito-infested areas

Are mosquito bites limited in number. No, there’s no set limit to how many times mosquitoes may bite an individual. In areas with large mosquito populations, a person could potentially receive dozens of bites in a short period.

Spider Bite Characteristics

Spider bites typically occur in isolation, with key differences from mosquito bites:

• Spiders usually bite only once when threatened
• They do not feed on humans and avoid contact when possible
• Multiple spider bites on one person are rare

Do spiders actively seek out humans to bite. No, most spiders prefer to avoid humans and only bite defensively when they feel threatened or are accidentally pressed against the skin.

Visual Differences Between Mosquito and Spider Bites

The appearance of a bite can be one of the most telling signs in differentiating between mosquito and spider bites. While there can be some overlap, certain visual characteristics are more commonly associated with each type of bite.

Typical Mosquito Bite Appearance

Mosquito bites have a fairly consistent appearance across most people:

• Small, round, raised bumps
• Reddish in color
• Often itchy and swollen
• Usually no visible puncture mark
• May appear in clusters or lines

Why don’t mosquito bites show a puncture mark. The mosquito’s proboscis (mouthpart) is extremely thin, making the actual puncture too small to be visible to the naked eye in most cases.

Common Spider Bite Characteristics

Spider bites can vary more in appearance, depending on the species. However, some general traits include:

• Red, swollen area around the bite
• Often painful or tender to touch
• May show two small puncture marks from fangs
• Usually appear as single bites, not in clusters

Can all spider bites be identified by fang marks. No, while some spider bites may show distinct fang marks, many do not. The visibility of puncture marks depends on factors like spider species, bite location, and individual reaction.

Venomous Spider Bites: Recognizing Serious Reactions

While most spider bites are harmless, bites from venomous species can cause more severe reactions. It’s crucial to recognize the signs of potentially dangerous spider bites, particularly from black widows and brown recluse spiders.

Black Widow Spider Bites

Black widow spiders are found in many parts of North America, including northern Washington. Their bites can cause systemic symptoms beyond the bite site:

• Red, swollen area around the bite
• Possible fang marks visible
• Pain that may spread from the bite site
• Muscle cramps and spasms
• Nausea and vomiting
• Sweating and fever

Are black widow spider bites always easily identifiable. No, while some bites may show clear signs, the initial bite often goes unnoticed. Systemic symptoms typically develop within a few hours.

Brown Recluse Spider Bites

Brown recluse spider bites can cause serious skin reactions in some cases:

• Initially may resemble a typical bug bite
• Red, bruised appearance around the bite
• Possible development of a white blister or lesion
• In severe cases, tissue necrosis (death) can occur
• Healing may take weeks or require medical intervention

Do all brown recluse bites lead to severe skin reactions. No, while brown recluse bites can potentially cause serious complications, many bites heal without significant issues. The severity of the reaction can vary greatly between individuals.

Symptoms and Health Risks Associated with Bites

Beyond their visual appearance, mosquito and spider bites can lead to different symptoms and potential health risks. Understanding these differences is crucial for proper treatment and recognizing when medical attention may be necessary.

Common Mosquito Bite Symptoms

Most mosquito bites cause mild, localized reactions:

• Itching (often intense)
• Mild swelling
• Redness around the bite area
• Warmth at the bite site

These symptoms typically resolve on their own within a few days. However, some individuals may experience more severe allergic reactions to mosquito bites, including larger areas of swelling and increased itching.

Mosquito-Borne Illnesses

The primary health concern with mosquito bites is the potential transmission of various diseases. While most mosquito bites do not lead to illness, mosquitoes can vector several serious conditions:

• West Nile virus
• Zika virus
• Malaria
• Dengue fever
• Chikungunya

Symptoms of mosquito-borne illnesses can vary but often include flu-like symptoms such as fever, body aches, and fatigue. In severe cases, some of these diseases can lead to serious complications or even be life-threatening.

How soon do symptoms of mosquito-borne illnesses appear after a bite. The incubation period varies depending on the specific disease, ranging from a few days to several weeks in some cases.

Typical Spider Bite Symptoms

Most spider bites cause only minor, localized symptoms:

• Pain or discomfort at the bite site
• Redness and swelling
• Itching (usually less intense than mosquito bites)

These symptoms often resolve within a few days without treatment. However, bites from venomous spiders can cause more severe reactions.

Symptoms of Venomous Spider Bites

Bites from venomous spiders like black widows or brown recluse spiders can cause more serious symptoms:

• Intense pain that may spread from the bite site
• Muscle cramps and spasms (particularly with black widow bites)
• Nausea and vomiting
• Fever and chills
• Headache
• In some cases, tissue necrosis (with brown recluse bites)

Can spider bites cause systemic illness like mosquito bites. While spider bites don’t typically transmit diseases like mosquito bites can, venomous spider bites can cause systemic symptoms that affect the entire body.

Treatment and Management of Mosquito and Spider Bites

Proper treatment of mosquito and spider bites can help alleviate symptoms and prevent complications. While many bites can be managed at home, it’s important to recognize when professional medical care may be necessary.

Home Care for Mosquito Bites

Most mosquito bites can be effectively treated with simple home remedies:

• Wash the affected area with soap and water
• Apply a cold compress to reduce swelling
• Use over-the-counter anti-itch creams or calamine lotion
• Take an oral antihistamine to relieve itching
• Avoid scratching to prevent infection

How long do mosquito bite symptoms typically last. Most mosquito bite symptoms resolve within a few days to a week, though some individuals may experience longer-lasting reactions.

Managing Spider Bites at Home

For non-venomous spider bites, home treatment is often sufficient:

• Clean the bite area with mild soap and water
• Apply a cold compress to reduce pain and swelling
• Use over-the-counter pain relievers if needed
• Elevate the affected limb if possible
• Monitor the bite for signs of infection

When to Seek Medical Attention

While most bites can be managed at home, certain situations warrant professional medical care:

• Signs of a severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis)
• Symptoms of a mosquito-borne illness (e.g., persistent fever, severe headache)
• Suspected bite from a venomous spider
• Increasing pain, redness, or swelling around the bite site
• Development of a spreading rash or blistering
• Signs of infection (e.g., pus, warmth, red streaks)

How quickly should you seek medical care for a suspected venomous spider bite. If you suspect a bite from a venomous spider like a black widow or brown recluse, seek medical attention immediately, as prompt treatment can help prevent serious complications.

Prevention Strategies for Mosquito and Spider Bites

Preventing bites is the most effective way to avoid the discomfort and potential health risks associated with mosquito and spider encounters. While complete prevention may not always be possible, several strategies can significantly reduce your risk of bites.

Mosquito Bite Prevention

To minimize your exposure to mosquitoes and reduce the likelihood of bites:

• Use EPA-registered insect repellents containing DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus
• Wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants when outdoors, especially during peak mosquito hours
• Treat clothing and gear with permethrin or purchase pre-treated items
• Use screens on windows and doors to keep mosquitoes out of living spaces
• Eliminate standing water around your property where mosquitoes can breed
• Use mosquito nets when sleeping outdoors or in areas without adequate screening

How often should insect repellent be reapplied for effective protection. Reapplication frequency depends on the specific product and activity level, but generally, repellents should be reapplied every few hours or after swimming or excessive sweating.

Spider Bite Prevention

To reduce your risk of spider bites, consider the following measures:

• Seal cracks and crevices in your home’s exterior to prevent spider entry
• Keep storage areas, garages, and basements clean and clutter-free
• Shake out shoes, clothing, and bedding before use, especially if stored in dark areas
• Wear gloves when working in gardens, woodpiles, or other outdoor areas where spiders may hide
• Be cautious when reaching into dark spaces or moving items that have been undisturbed for long periods
• Consider using natural spider repellents like peppermint oil or vinegar solutions around your home

Can eliminating other insects help reduce spider populations in and around homes. Yes, reducing the overall insect population can help discourage spiders, as it limits their food sources. Maintaining a clean environment and addressing other pest issues can indirectly help control spider populations.

Creating a Pest-Resistant Environment

Some general practices can help create an environment less hospitable to both mosquitoes and spiders:

• Maintain your yard by regularly mowing grass and trimming vegetation
• Remove debris and leaf litter where pests can hide
• Ensure proper drainage to eliminate standing water
• Use outdoor lighting that’s less attractive to insects, such as yellow “bug lights”
• Consider planting natural pest-repelling plants like lavender, mint, or citronella

By implementing these prevention strategies, you can significantly reduce your risk of encountering both mosquitoes and spiders, thereby minimizing the likelihood of bites. Remember that while these measures are effective, it’s still important to be vigilant and prepared to identify and properly treat any bites that may occur.

Mosquito VS. Spider Bite: Differences Between Pest Injuries!

Ouch! Where did that bite come from?

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Bug bites are common problems throughout the year, but sometimes it’s hard to tell which pest has bitten you. Depending on the insect, you may also develop different symptoms or illnesses! 

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Comparing a mosquito vs. spider bite isn’t always easy, but understanding the difference is important if you begin to feel ill. 

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In our article, we’ll show you the differences between mosquito and spider bites!

Primary Differences Between a Mosquito vs. Spider Bite

No bug bite is the same, even if they all itch! Insect bites and stings can cause different reactions depending on the pest. For example, an ant sting won’t hurt like a yellow jacket’s!

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Take a look at the distinctions between mosquito and spider bites, so you will know what to do the next time you spot a bug bite!

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Time of Year

Unless you live in a year-round humid climate, mosquitoes aren’t a common problem during the fall or winter. Mosquitoes flit around outdoors when temperatures heat up in the spring, but most populations die down in cooler weather. 

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Male and female mosquitoes have relatively short lifespans, with males dying soon after mating. Females can live for around a month or two but typically won’t last longer than a few weeks.

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Unlike other insects that settle down for the winter, most of these pests will have already died by the time temperatures drop. Some mosquitoes may hibernate, but only mosquito eggs can typically withstand chilly weather. 

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If you find insect bites during the winter, it’s safe to rule out mosquitoes. Spiders are common throughout the year, but homeowners typically notice these eight-legged pests as the leaves fall off the trees outdoors!

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Frequency of Bites

The number of bites you’ve received can help further differentiate between a mosquito vs. spider bite. During hot summer days, you may return to your home with multiple itchy marks littered around your body.  

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Female mosquitoes will continually bite a subject to sate her hunger and feed multiple times over the course of a few days. If you’re in a mosquito-infested area, there’s no limit to the number of times these pests may land on you for a quick meal!

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Spiders typically only bite their prey once, so it’s unlikely these pests will attack you again. Plus, most spiders only harm humans if they feel threatened. Unlike mosquitoes, they won’t seek you out and prefer to leave humans alone. 

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The tiny arachnids you find in your home won’t see you as food, so they often won’t attempt to get too close. 

Mosquito vs. Spider Bite Appearance

Mosquito bites are known for their signature itchy feeling, but how does their appearance differ from a spider’s bite?

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Mosquitos

If a mosquito has ever bitten you, you’re probably familiar with the swollen marks appearing on your skin after a day outdoors. These bumps look red and are hard to touch. Because of the mosquito’s thin mouthpiece, you usually won’t see a puncture mark on the inside of the bite.

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Spider Bites

A spider bite may look differently depending on the species. For many non-venomous spiders, their bites may appear similar to a mosquito bite! The area is typically red and inflamed with two fang marks.

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Most spider bites heal without complications, but a venomous spider bite could cause adverse skin reactions. In northern Washington, black widow spiders are a concern for many homeowners.

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A black widow spider’s bite is more notorious for the bodily symptoms it causes, but you may still notice a red rash, swelling, bump, and fang marks according to John Hopkins Medical Center. 

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Other spiders like the brown recluse can cause debilitating skin conditions. While not every brown recluse bite results in skin necrosis, some unlucky individuals will have serious side effects. 

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When bitten by a brown recluse, many report their skin turning red and bruising. The bite mark can develop into an ulcer or deep wound that will take weeks to heal completely. In extreme cases, these bites may require surgery to remove impacted skin. 

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Check out this video to learn more about the physical appearance of a mosquito vs. spider bite!

Mosquito and Spider Bite Symptoms

For regular insect bites, you shouldn’t notice any lingering symptoms. For most mosquito bites, you shouldn’t experience any pain. Spider bites are typically uncomfortable or painful, while mosquito bites are uncomfortably itchy!

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However, mosquito and spider bites can cause some harmful side effects.

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When bitten by a mosquito carrying a parasite or illness like West Nile virus, malaria, or the Zika virus, you will notice some symptoms different from a common bug bite.  

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West Nile virus and malaria have similar flu-like symptoms, but malaria typically is a more extreme and deadly illness. 

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Venomous spider bites can cause similar flu-like symptoms along with physical skin reactions. You may experience: 

• Body aches
• Fever
• Chills
• Nausea 
• Intense pain around the bitten area

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Of course, the symptoms of illnesses caused by different mosquito bites can differ from reactions toward venomous spiders, but many of these afflictions share similar effects. If you notice an insect bite and experience significant illness, contact a doctor with your concerns. 

Mosquito and Spider Pest Control

A pest bite isn’t fun, no matter the source! To avoid obnoxious and painful bites, you should focus on removing mosquitoes and spiders from your property. 

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Because mosquitoes are a common summertime nuisance, focus on making your yard inhospitable during the warm weather.  

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Empty all containers, toys, tires, or buckets full of rainwater and keep a close eye on birdbaths and ponds for increased mosquito activity. 

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Spiders are primarily solitary creatures but can still infest your home in droves! If your home has ample stores of pests, these arachnids will rest comfortably inside and snack on any stray insect that stops by. 

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DIY pest control options can help reduce the number of pests on your property, but it’s difficult to remove insects and spiders completely. Once these nuisances have a foothold inside or outside your home, it’s time to call a pest control agency to help you solve your problem!

Here at Zunex Pest Control, we offer mosquito control services and cover spiders in our general pest control treatments! Contact us today to learn more about our services or to schedule a treatment!

spider bite vs mosquito bite – 67f25hdjpi

How to tell the difference between a spider bite and…

www. medicinenet.com › difference_between_spider How to tell the difference between spider bites and… www.medicinenet.com › difference_between_spider CachedTypes of a spider bites. Most spider bites are irritating but not dangerous to humans. They usually last a day or two and… spider bite diagnosis. If possible try to catch the spider that bit you. Bringing real spiders will help … treat insect bites. If your bite is not…

Mosquito Bite vs Spider Bite Differences & Similarities

pestbugs.org › Differences › mosquito-vs-spider-biteMosquito Bite vs Spider Bite Differences & Similarities pestbugs.org › Differences › mosquito-vs-spider-bite CachedMosquitobites vs Spider Bites Similarities Between Mosquito Bites and Spider Bites ance with Pictures A mosquito bite appears as small white bumps on the skin. The center of the bump is small and red. Usually this is the itchy part. However, different looks for different people. The appearance of the bite is different based on several factors. Skin sensitivity and mosquito species are some of the factors that influence the nature of mosquito bites. Mosquito saliva has a chemical composition that contains proteins. This protein can stimulate someone’s immune system… Spider Bites-The appearance of a spider bite will not show any symptoms or evidence until a few hours have passed. Appearance and symptoms vary depending on the type of spider that bit you. Common symptoms include; 1. Red skin in the bitten area 2. Pain in the bitten area 3. Swelling 4. There are two holes in the skin 5. Severallergic reaction Spider bites are usually a single wound or twin punctures in the center. You may experience an enlarged wound that looks similar to a large bruise. Difference Between Mosquito Bites and Spider Bites Mosquitoes select their prey using body odor mechanisms because they have odor receptors on their antennae. This mechanism differentiates breathing levels for different people. On the other hand, spiders only attack humans when they feel their space is being invaded or as a defense mechanism. Mosquito bites cause the human immune system to react by producing antibodies against antigens released by the mosquito’s saliva. The site of the bite usually itches for an hour or more. Spiders… See the full list at pestbugs.org Both stings cause red, itchy, and swollen skin. Both mosquito and spider bites can cause allergic reactions. Both insects release toxins into the body and the human immune system reacts. Both bites may appear at similar times considering that they may both leave one bite mark. In some cases spider mites … See the full list at pestbugs.org Can mosquitoes and spider bites spread HIV or hepatitis? No numerous tests have been conducted to verify this statement, but no evidence has been revealed that saliva secreted by mosquitoes or venom by spiders transmits any disease. The virus that causes AIDS never survives either mosquitoes or spiders. The insect’s proboscis has a separate channel to expel blood and saliva or venom. In this way, neither hepatitis nor AIDS can be transmitted through these insects. See the full list at pestbugs.org

Insect Sting vs. Insect Bite What is the difference? – WebMD

Fleas Bedbugs Ticks Some fleas and spiders also bite but they are technically arachnids not insects. Ticks feed on your blood but spiders don’t. There are also some poisonous spiders. You can have…

Mosquito vs. Spider Bite – How to tell if they bite each other

By Jack Billings Last Updated September 30, 2021 Bugs bite a lot. But the two worst creatures of all time are mosquitoes and spiders, both of which are very noticeable. than something like a water bug bite. These bugs are famous for giving people trouble especially during their sleep.

How to detect mosquito bites, tick bites, spider bites and…

www.womenshealthmag.com › mosquito-bite-pictures How To Identify Mosquito Bites Tick Bites Spider Bites And … www.womenshealthmag.com › mosquito-bite-pictures CachedVideo Duration 2 minMosquito bite. What it looks like most mosquito bites appear as red bumps according to Hari Nadiminti MD, president of dermatology at Summit Medical Group in New Jersey. bite It seems that “a lot of times you may still see the tick attached to the skin” making it easier to identify what’s behind the bump, Dr. Rodney said. Spider bites. See the full post on Instagram. What it looks like Spider bites can actually look a little different from other insect bites because of the important feature they make two cracks says Nancy Troyano PhD board certified entomologist for Western Exterminator. Bed bugs. What seems like these are quite easy to notice because the bed bites are linear. Dr. “Bed bugs will bite you in one place, walk a few centimeters and bite you again,” Rodney said.

Spider bites – diagnosis and treatment – Mayo Clinic

Diagnosis. Spider bites can be mistaken for other skin lesions that are painful, red, or swollen. Many skin lesions caused by spider bites appear to be caused by bites from other insects such as houseflies, mosquitoes and biting flies. Skin infections and other skin conditions even burns can be mistaken for spider bites.

Spider Bites vs. MRSA infection how to tell them off

Spider bites can cause one or more blisters with fluid-filled blisters called bullae. However, other insects can bite. However, other insects can bite. And although MRSA looks very similar, it often causes a rash with small bumps called pustules.

What is more dangerous? Spider Bite vs. Mosquito Bite

One major difference between spider bites and mosquito bites however is the length of time it can take for symptoms to appear. Not all spider bites are immediately detectable. As the University of Rochester Medical Center states, it can take about an hour and a half for the symptoms of a black spider bite to appear and as long as 4-8 hours after…

15 Pictures of Common Insect Bites – How to Identify Insect Bites and Stings

2 Spider Bites mia! / Flickr What they look like if you get two small puncture marks on your skin (or see a spider crawling away) you may be dealing with a spider bite. red marks…

Spider bites – symptoms and causes – Mayo Clinic

Overview. Spider bites are usually harmless and spiders usually do not bite unless threatened. Spider bites may cause pain, redness and swelling or you may not notice them at all. Many insect bites and skin lesions cause pain, redness, and swelling.

Spider Bite vs Mosquito Bite; What Bit Me? – pestmethods.com

In summary, compared to mosquito bites, some spider bites are poisonous and life-threatening. But when mosquitoes bite it is important to take appropriate preventive measures, while also controlling diseases that have a positive effect on reducing the pain of the bite.

Spider vs. Mosquito Bite understands the difference

On the other hand many spider bites appear as two prominent spots next to each other. They may be red bumps that look like irregular dots as opposed to mosquito bites. They tend to be red and may be accompanied by irritation. However, while mosquito bites are often itchy, spider bites are usually mild.

Symptoms of mosquito, flea, bee bites – how to recognize them

How to understand which insect has bitten you (photo: Freepik)

Author:
Julia Gayuk

With the beginning of the summer season and trips to nature, the season of bites of various insects begins: from mosquitoes to spiders. Depending on what exactly could bite you, the symptoms and first aid will change. Therefore, it is important to independently be able to determine the type of bite.

This was told by family doctor Elena Matsekh on her Instagram page.

Symptoms and signs of various insect bites

Mosquitoes and midges

If you are bitten by a mosquito, this area of ​​the skin will rise and begin to itch. A fluid-filled element called a vesicle may form.

But the bites of midges are painful and itchy. In their place, swelling and bumps may occur.

Infographics: instagram.com/dr.olena_matsekh

Gedz

Since the insect does not exude anesthetic during biting, this moment is painful. Therefore, it is highly likely that you will feel the bite and have time to see what kind of insect it is. Gedz releases a substance into the blood that prevents the blood from clotting, resulting in an anaphylactic reaction.

It should be noted that wound healing takes a long time and can often be accompanied by suppuration.

Infographic: instagram.com/dr.olena_matsekh

Fleas

These bites are itchy and red. Usually, fleas bite exposed areas of the body, but if you have pets, the stomach and thighs can also be affected.

Infographics: instagram.com/dr.olena_matsekh

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They usually bite the face, arms, legs and neck, and the bites themselves are arranged in straight lines. However, they are not painful and may itch slightly.

Infographics: instagram.com/dr.olena_matsekh

Bees, wasps and hornets

but the wasp and hornet do not. That is, the place of a bee sting will have a red dot of broken skin.

After being bitten by a hornet, an area of ​​skin becomes red and swollen far beyond the bite itself. In addition, you may feel pain for several weeks.

But anaphylactic shock is possible both from a bee sting, and from a hornet and wasp.

Infographics: instagram.com/dr.olena_matsekh

Spiders

If it was non-poisonous, then the bite will look like two dots side by side. And if this was done by a poisonous spider (karakurt, for example), then cell death may occur.

Infographics: instagram.com/dr.olena_matsekh

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The bites of these snakes common in Ukraine look like two red spots next to each other – just like the front teeth of a reptile.

In 75% of cases there are only external signs. 25% of those affected may have more severe symptoms: swelling, vomiting, loss of consciousness, etc. But lethal outcomes are known only 1-2%. How to recognize anaphylactic shock?

Some people who are not at all exotic bites, such as midges, may experience an anaphylactic reaction.

Symptoms:

• skin redness, burning, stinging or itching
• tachycardia
• nausea and vomiting
• skin edema (age and lips), mucosal edema
• membranes (angioedema)
• urticaria
• laryngeal edema, hoarseness, wheezing, coughing fits.
• drop in blood pressure
• sweating, pallor

In severe cases – spasm of the larynx, shock, respiratory and cardiac arrest.

If such a reaction occurred at least once in a lifetime, a person should remember this and avoid possible contact with insects as much as possible, carry the collected adrenaline solution with him and be able to administer it himself.

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ERR overview: which insects and arachnids are willing to bite and sting the people of Estonia | Ecology

Summer in Estonia is not complete without a can of spray against annoying insects. Mosquitoes, horseflies, ticks and midges are not the only representatives of the local fauna, lying in wait for their prey or even chasing it. The editors of the ERR portal decided to find out which insects and arthropods pose a danger to humans. The topic is commented by the biologist of the Museum of Nature Katerina Pesocki.

Some insects have been familiar to Estonians since early childhood and usually evoke only positive emotions. A prime example of this is the ladybug. The reddish-orange ladybug, or coccinellidae, the seven-spotted ladybug, immediately catches the eye and is usually perceived as the cutest creature. People often pick it up to take a picture or see how spectacularly the insect will take off from their finger. But there is also an unexpected turn when the ladybug bites.

The seven-spotted ladybug is able to use its mouthparts to bite a person, among other things. Author: Pixabay

Although this small insect is not capable of biting the skin to blood, an unexpected bite can still scare a person. How is it that such a cute insect suddenly bites? The fact is that many representatives of arthropods, especially those with a gnawing type of mouth apparatus, are quite capable of using their weapons, including for self-defense purposes.

Common earwig. Terrible in appearance, but does not bite. Posted by Melani Marfeld / Pixabay

It also happens that not only the jaws, but also various outgrowths on the body can serve as means of self-defense. For example, there are such interesting insects as earwigs. At the end of their elongated body, on the last segment of the abdomen, there are processes called forceps. The insect uses them perfectly, like tongs. They can also be used in self-defense, although often the insect simply frightens by demonstrating its formidable weapon.

Spiders: there are no extremely dangerous spiders in Estonia, but the bite of some can be painful

Defending themselves, not only insects can bite, but also, for example, spiders.

All spiders living in Estonia are predatory “comrades” (lead a predatory lifestyle), and their adaptations are appropriate. Spiders have mouth appendages, chelicerae, and venom ducts that they inject into the victim’s body. The venom of the spiders living in Estonia is not lethal to us, but the bite of large spiders with fairly strong chelicerae can be painful. The bite of some single species can cause redness on the skin, swelling and fever. However, there are no spiders living in Estonia whose venom is extremely dangerous.

In Estonia, there is a yellow-headed piercing spider. Its venom can cause nausea and fever. Author: Fritz Geller-Grimm/Wikipedia

All of the arthropods mentioned use their weapons exclusively for self-defense. Not a single ladybug would think of climbing on a sleeping person to bite him.

Hematophagous: chasing and attacking

There are some representatives of arthropods that lead a parasitic lifestyle and are hematophagous, that is, their diet consists of blood. They pursue prey and actively attack.

Some have adapted so effectively to a parasitic way of life that they live with their potential victims: bed bugs and lice with humans, fleas with dogs.

Fleas, bed bugs and louse prefer to coexist with their prey. Author: collage

Other representatives of hematophagous arthropods prefer to live in nature and patiently wait for a meeting with their prey. Among arachnids, these are, of course, ticks.

Ixodid ticks in Estonia

If a person doubts whether a tick is crawling on him, then you can count the limbs: a tick with a flat brownish body has eight limbs. Different types of ticks live in Estonia, of which two species parasitize humans: the taiga tick and the dog tick. The name of the latter does not mean that it is found only in dogs.

The dog tick carries diseases such as Lyme disease, encephalitis, Marseilles fever. Author: Erik Karits / Pixabay

It should be understood that ticks do not fall from trees like pine cones. They wait for their prey on low plants. According to my personal observations, there are more ticks in 2020 than in the past. This was facilitated by a warm winter.

If ixodid ticks are waiting for their prey, sitting in ambush, on some relatively long blade of grass, trying to catch the approach of the desired object with the help of receptors, then some insects have to actively move in search of their prey.

Mosquitoes and their relatives – midges and midges

Everyone knows how piercing the mosquito squeak sounds at night when the insect flies in the silence of the room over the ear in search of access to blood. There are over 1200 species of mosquitoes in Estonia, but don’t worry – not all of these species feed on blood. There are three families: blood-sucking mosquitoes, midges and midges. They use blood, including human.

The female mosquito needs blood to continue offspring. Author: Pixabay

About 30 species of mosquitoes “drink” human blood. Most of them parasitize humans in the warm season, but there are exceptions, such as the basement mosquito. Such an insect in nature can be found in warm countries. Once in Estonia, this species has adapted to breed in damp basements, and the cold winter does not bother it. Usually, blood-sucking mosquitoes that breed in the nature of our country are active from spring to late autumn. Among blood-sucking mosquitoes, as you know, females “drink” blood, they need it for the development of germ cells and laying eggs.

Mosquitoes’ relatives include midges and midges.

Biting midges are one of the smallest blood-sucking parasites among insects, they are no more than 3 mm in length. These insects begin to fly actively around the time of cherry blossom, but become especially annoying by the beginning of July. It is the females who consume the blood, their bites are painful and cause redness on the skin. There are about 20 species of biting midges in Estonia.

Female midge. Author: Wikipedia

Among the bloodsuckers there are also smaller representatives – midges. The species diversity of midges in our country is also within 20 species. Their saliva causes intense itching.

Deer bloodsuckers, gadflies and calyptera calyptus

In addition to mosquitoes and their relatives, various flies show interest in blood. One family of insects is called the bloodsuckers.

The most famous representative of the bloodsucker in our country is the deer bloodsucker, more often it is called the moose fly. You can meet them in those forests where moose, deer, roe deer and wild boars live. In dry forests without succulent vegetation, and therefore without food for elk and deer, these flies are not found. Most often, a fly crawls over its prey without wings. The fact is that when she lands on her food object, she gets rid of her wings forever.

Deer bloodsuckers are confused with ticks because, once on the body, they shed their wings. Author: Flickr

In addition to deer bloodsuckers and other flies, the well-known gadflies also belong to the short-whiskered suborder. If you tell a child that a horsefly is a large fly, with big eyes and a desire to taste blood, this will not be a lie.

The horsefly has really big eyes to see its prey. Although horseflies are good flyers and can easily fly a couple of kilometers, they still do not fly far from the reservoir. Horse flies are usually active from late May to mid September. The greatest activity is achieved on hot summer days, in cloudy and rainy weather the activity of horseflies decreases. Females feed on blood, males consume plant foods.

Houseflies do not bite

Our harmless housefly has a close relative in the family – the autumn stinger, about 5-7 mm in length. Some people might think that these are house flies “go crazy” by autumn and start biting people, but no. Closer to autumn, it is not at all house flies that attack, but autumn zhigalki.