What are the common symptoms of insect bites in children. How can parents treat bug bites at home. When should you seek medical attention for a child’s insect bite. What are effective ways to prevent bug bites and stings in kids.

Understanding Insect Bites and Stings in Children

Insect bites and stings are a common occurrence in children, especially during warmer months when outdoor activities increase. While most are harmless and resolve on their own, it’s crucial for parents and caregivers to understand the potential risks and appropriate management techniques.

Insects that commonly bite or sting children include:

• Wasps and hornets
• Bees
• Mosquitoes
• Ticks
• Fleas
• Bedbugs
• Spiders
• Midges

While these encounters are often merely annoying, they can occasionally lead to more serious complications such as infections or severe allergic reactions.

Recognizing Symptoms of Insect Bites and Stings

How can you identify an insect bite or sting on your child? The most common symptoms include:

• A red, swollen lump on the skin
• Pain or tenderness at the site
• Itching or burning sensation
• In some cases, a visible stinger may be present

These symptoms typically improve within a few hours to days. However, some children may experience a mild allergic reaction, resulting in a larger area of swelling, redness, and discomfort that can persist for up to a week.

Distinguishing Between Different Insect Bites

Can you tell the difference between various insect bites? While it’s not always possible to identify the culprit, certain characteristics can provide clues:

• Mosquito bites: Small, round, and itchy bumps that appear quickly
• Bee stings: Immediate sharp pain followed by a red, swollen area
• Tick bites: Often found in skin folds or hairy areas, with the tick potentially still attached
• Flea bites: Small, red, itchy spots often in clusters or lines

Home Treatment for Insect Bites and Stings

How should you treat your child’s insect bite or sting at home? Follow these steps for effective management:

1. Remove any visible stinger by gently scraping it out with a straight-edged object
2. Clean the affected area with soap and water
3. Apply a cold compress or ice pack to reduce swelling and pain
4. Elevate the affected limb if possible to minimize swelling
5. Use over-the-counter antihistamines or pain relievers as needed
6. Apply calamine lotion or hydrocortisone cream to relieve itching

It’s important to discourage your child from scratching the bite to prevent infection. Traditional home remedies like vinegar or baking soda are generally ineffective and should be avoided.

When to Seek Medical Attention

While most insect bites and stings can be managed at home, certain situations require professional medical care. When should you contact a healthcare provider?

• If symptoms worsen or fail to improve after a few days
• If the bite or sting is in the mouth, throat, or near the eyes
• If a large area (10cm or more) becomes red and swollen
• If there are signs of infection, such as increased pain, swelling, or pus
• If your child develops flu-like symptoms or a fever

In rare cases, insect bites or stings can trigger a severe allergic reaction known as anaphylaxis. This is a medical emergency requiring immediate attention.

Signs of Anaphylaxis

What are the symptoms of a severe allergic reaction to an insect bite or sting? Watch for:

• Difficulty breathing or wheezing
• Swelling of the face, mouth, or throat
• Nausea or vomiting
• Rapid heartbeat
• Dizziness or fainting
• Difficulty swallowing
• Loss of consciousness

If you observe any of these symptoms, call emergency services immediately.

Preventing Insect Bites and Stings in Children

How can you protect your child from insect bites and stings? Implement these preventive measures:

• Dress children in long-sleeved shirts and long pants when outdoors
• Apply an appropriate insect repellent to exposed skin
• Avoid using scented products that may attract insects
• Keep food covered when eating outdoors
• Avoid areas with stagnant water or flowering plants
• Ensure children wear shoes when playing outside
• Teach children to remain calm and move away slowly if they encounter bees or wasps

By following these guidelines, you can significantly reduce your child’s risk of insect bites and stings.

Choosing the Right Insect Repellent for Children

Selecting an appropriate insect repellent is crucial for effective prevention. Which types are safe and effective for children?

• DEET-based repellents: Considered most effective, with concentrations up to 30% safe for children over 2 months old
• Picaridin: A good alternative to DEET, effective against a wide range of insects
• Oil of lemon eucalyptus: Natural option, but not recommended for children under 3 years
• IR3535: Synthetic repellent, less effective than DEET but with fewer side effects

Always follow the product instructions and avoid applying repellents to children’s hands or face to prevent accidental ingestion or eye contact.

Natural Alternatives to Chemical Repellents

Are there natural ways to repel insects without using chemical products? While generally less effective than chemical repellents, some natural methods may help:

• Planting insect-repelling herbs like citronella, lavender, or mint around outdoor areas
• Using essential oils like eucalyptus or tea tree in diffusers (not directly on skin)
• Wearing light-colored clothing, as darker colors tend to attract insects
• Avoiding peak insect hours, typically dawn and dusk

Remember that these methods should not replace proven repellents in high-risk situations.

Special Considerations for Traveling with Children

When traveling to areas with a higher risk of insect-borne diseases, additional precautions may be necessary. How can you protect your child during travel?

• Consult with a travel clinic or pediatrician before your trip
• Consider prophylactic medications if recommended (e.g., antimalarials)
• Use bed nets treated with insecticide when sleeping in risk areas
• Choose accommodations with proper screening on windows and doors
• Be extra vigilant about applying insect repellent and protective clothing

Research your destination to understand specific risks and recommended precautions.

Insect-Borne Diseases to Be Aware Of

What are some serious illnesses that can be transmitted through insect bites? While rare in many parts of the world, it’s important to be aware of:

• Malaria: Transmitted by mosquitoes in tropical and subtropical regions
• Lyme disease: Spread by ticks, particularly in wooded areas
• West Nile virus: Carried by mosquitoes in various parts of the world
• Zika virus: Mosquito-borne illness with potential risks for pregnant women
• Dengue fever: Transmitted by mosquitoes in tropical and subtropical climates

Understanding these risks can help you take appropriate precautions and recognize potential symptoms early.

Educating Children About Insect Safety

How can you teach your children to protect themselves from insect bites and stings? Implement these educational strategies:

• Explain the importance of wearing protective clothing and using repellent
• Teach them to recognize common stinging insects and their nests
• Instruct them on how to calmly move away from insects without panicking
• Encourage them to inform an adult immediately if they’ve been bitten or stung
• Make applying insect repellent part of their routine when going outdoors

By involving children in their own protection, you can help them develop lifelong habits for insect safety.

Making Insect Protection Fun for Kids

How can you make insect protection engaging for children? Try these creative approaches:

• Create a “bug safety kit” together with repellent, first-aid items, and a magnifying glass for safe insect observation
• Play educational games about identifying different insects and their habits
• Read children’s books about insects and their roles in the ecosystem
• Organize “bug hunts” where children can safely observe insects from a distance
• Encourage them to keep a nature journal to record their insect encounters

By making insect education interactive and enjoyable, children are more likely to engage with and remember important safety practices.

Understanding the Role of Insects in the Ecosystem

While focusing on protection from insect bites and stings, it’s also important to teach children about the vital role insects play in our world. How do insects contribute to the ecosystem?

• Pollination of plants, including many food crops
• Decomposition of organic matter, enriching soil
• Serving as a food source for many animals
• Controlling populations of other insects, maintaining balance
• Contributing to scientific research and medical advancements

By fostering an appreciation for insects, children can develop a more balanced perspective on these often misunderstood creatures.

Promoting Responsible Insect Management

How can we protect ourselves from harmful insect encounters while still respecting their place in nature? Consider these approaches:

• Use targeted pest control methods rather than broad-spectrum insecticides
• Create insect-friendly spaces in your garden with native plants
• Teach children to observe insects from a safe distance rather than disturbing them
• Support conservation efforts for beneficial insects like bees and butterflies
• Learn to differentiate between harmful and beneficial insects in your area

By promoting responsible insect management, we can protect our children while also preserving the delicate balance of our ecosystem.

NHS 111 Wales – Health A-Z : Insect bites and stings

Insect bites and stings

Overview

Most insect bites and stings are not serious and will get better within a few hours or days.

But occasionally they can become infected, cause a severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) or spread serious illnesses such as Lyme disease and malaria.

Bugs that bite or sting include wasps, hornets, bees, horseflies, ticks, mosquitoes, fleas, bedbugs, spiders and midges.

Symptoms of an insect bite or sting

Insect bites and stings will usually cause a red, swollen lump to develop on the skin. This may be painful and in some cases can be very itchy.

The symptoms will normally improve within a few hours or days, although sometimes they can last a little longer.

Some people have a mild allergic reaction and a larger area of skin around the bite or sting becomes swollen, red and painful. This should pass within a week.

Occasionally, a severe allergic reaction can occur, causing symptoms such as breathing difficulties, dizziness and a swollen face or mouth. This requires immediate medical treatment.

What to do if you’ve been bitten or stung

To treat an insect bite or sting:

• remove the sting or tick if it’s still in the skin
• wash the affected area with soap and water
• apply a cold compress (such as a flannel or cloth cooled with cold water) or an ice pack to any swelling for at least 10 minutes
• raise or elevate the affected area if possible, as this can help reduce swelling
• avoid scratching the area, to reduce the risk of infection
• avoid traditional home remedies, such as vinegar and bicarbonate of soda, as they’re unlikely to help

The pain, swelling and itchiness can sometimes last a few days. Ask your pharmacist about medicines that can help, such as painkillers, creams for itching and antihistamines.

When to get medical advice

Contact your GP or call 111 for advice if:

• you’re worried about a bite or sting
• your symptoms do not start to improve within a few days or are getting worse
• you’ve been stung or bitten in your mouth or throat, or near your eyes
• a large area (around 10cm or more patch of skin) around the bite becomes red and swollen
• you have symptoms of a wound infection, such as pus or increasing pain, swelling or redness
• you have symptoms of a more widespread infection, such as a high temperature, swollen glands and other flu-like symptoms

When to get emergency medical help

Dial 999 for an ambulance immediately if you or someone else has symptoms of a severe reaction, such as:

• wheezing or difficulty breathing
• a swollen face, mouth or throat
• feeling sick or being sick
• a fast heart rate
• dizziness or feeling faint
• difficulty swallowing
• loss of consciousness

Emergency treatment in hospital is needed in these cases.

Preventing insect bites and stings

There are some simple precautions you can take to reduce your risk of being bitten or stung by insects.

For example, you should:

• remain calm and move away slowly if you encounter wasps, hornets or bees – don’t wave your arms around or swat at them
• cover exposed skin by wearing long sleeves and trousers
• wear shoes when outdoors
• apply insect repellent to exposed skin – repellents that contain 50% DEET (diethyltoluamide) are most effective
• avoid using products with strong perfumes, such as soaps, shampoos and deodorants – these can attract insects
• be careful around flowering plants, rubbish, compost, stagnant water, and in outdoor areas where food is served

You may need to take extra precautions if you’re travelling to part of the world where there’s a risk of serious illnesses. For example, you may be advised to take antimalarial tablets to help prevent malaria.

Symptoms

An insect bite or sting often causes a small, red lump on the skin, which may be painful and itchy.

Many bites will clear up within a few hours or days and can be safely treated at home.

It can be difficult to identify what you were bitten or stung by if you did not see it happen. But do not worry if you’re not sure – the treatment for most bites and stings is similar.

Wasp and hornet stings

A wasp or hornet sting causes a sudden sharp pain at first.  A swollen red mark may then form on your skin, which can last a few hours and may be painful and itchy.

Sometimes a larger area around the sting can be painful, red and swollen for up to a week.  This is a minor allergic reaction, that is not usually anything to worry about.

A few people may experience a serious allergic reaction (anaphylaxis), causing breathing difficulties, dizziness and a swollen face or mouth.
Dial 999 for an ambulance immediately if you have these symptoms.

Bee stings

A bee sting feels similar to a wasp sting, but the sting will often be left in the wound. See treating insect bites for advice about how to remove this safely.

The sting can cause pain, redness and swelling for a few hours. As with wasp stings, some people may have a mild allergic reaction that lasts up to a week.

Serious allergic reactions can also occasionally occur, causing breathing difficulties, dizziness and a swollen face or mouth. Dial 999 for an ambulance immediately if you have these symptoms.

Mosquito bites

Bites from mosquitoes often cause small red lumps on your skin. These are usually very itchy. Some people may also develop fluid-filled blisters.

Mosquitoes don’t cause major harm in the UK, but in some parts of the world they can spread serious illnesses such as malaria.

Get medical help right away if you develop worrying symptoms, such as a high temperature, chills, headaches and feeling sick, after a mosquito bite abroad.

Tick bites

Tick bites are not usually painful, so you may not realise you’ve been bitten straight away.

Symptoms of a tick bite can include:

• a small red lump on the skin
• swelling
• itchiness
• blistering
• bruising

Ticks in the UK can sometimes carry a potentially serious infection called Lyme disease, so they should be removed as soon as possible if you find one attached to your skin.

See your GP if you develop any symptoms of Lyme disease, such as a rash that looks like a “bull’s-eye on a dartboard” or a fever.

Horsefly bites

A bite from a horsefly can be very painful and the bitten area of skin will usually be red and raised.

You may also experience:

• a larger red, raised rash (called hives or urticaria)
• dizziness
• weakness
• wheezing
• part of your body becoming puffy and swollen

Horsefly bites can take a while to heal and can become infected. See your GP if you have symptoms of an infection, such as pus or increasing pain, redness and swelling.

Midge or gnat bites

Midge and gnat bites often look similar to mosquito bites.

They usually cause small, red lumps that can be painful and very itchy, and can sometimes swell up alarmingly.

Some people may also develop fluid-filled blisters.

Bedbug bites

Bedbug bites typically occur on the face, neck, hands or arms. They’re typically found in straight lines across the skin.

The bites are not usually painful, and if you’ve not been bitten by bedbugs before, you may not have any symptoms.

If you have been bitten before, you may develop itchy red bumps that can last for several days.

Mite bites

Mite bites cause very itchy red lumps to develop on the skin and can sometimes also cause blisters.

Mites usually bite uncovered skin, but you may be bitten on your tummy and thighs if your pet has mites and has been sitting on your lap.

Some mites burrow into the skin and cause a condition called scabies.

Flea bites

Flea bites can cause small, itchy red lumps that are sometimes grouped in lines or clusters. Blisters may also occasionally develop.

Fleas from cats and dogs often bite below the knee, commonly around the ankles. You may also get flea bites on your forearms if you’ve been stroking or holding your pet.

Spider bites

Bites from spiders in the UK are uncommon, but some native spiders – such as the false widow spider – are capable of giving a nasty bite.

Spider bites leave small puncture marks on the skin, which can be painful and cause redness and swelling.

Some spiders bites can cause you to feel or be sick, sweating and dizziness. Bites can also become infected or cause a severe allergic reaction in rare cases. Get medical help immediately if you have any severe or worrying symptoms after a spider bite.

Ant stings and bites

The most common ant in the UK, the black garden variety, does not sting or bite, but red ants, wood ants and flying ants sometimes do.

Ant bites and stings are generally harmless, although you’ll probably feel a nip and a pale pink mark may develop on your skin.

Sometimes the bitten area may be painful, itchy and swollen.

Ladybird bites

All ladybirds can bite, but a type called the harlequin ladybird found throughout much of the UK is more aggressive and tends to bite more often.

The harlequin ladybird can be red or orange with multiple spots. Look out for a white spot on its head – other ladybirds do not have these patches.

Ladybird bites can be painful, but are not usually anything to worry about.

Flower bug bites

Flower bugs are common insects that feed on aphids and mites. You can identify the common flower bug by its tiny oval body, reflective wings and orange-brown legs.

Flower bugs bites can be painful and very itchy, and are often slow to heal.

Caterpillar hairs

The caterpillars of the oak processionary moth are a real pest. They were first found in the UK in 2006 and are now in London and parts of southeast England.

In late spring and summer, the caterpillars have thousands of tiny hairs that can cause itchy rashes, eye problems and sore throats – and very occasionally breathing difficulties. The caterpillars walk up and down trees in nose-to-tail processions.

If you find them, or spot one of their white silken nests, report it to the Forestry Commission or to your local council.

Treatment

Most insect bites will improve within a few hours or days and can be treated at home.

First aid for insect bites and stings

To treat an insect bite or sting:

• Remove the sting, tick or hairs if still in the skin. 
• Wash the affected area with soap and water.
• Apply a cold compress (such as a flannel or cloth cooled with cold water) or an ice pack to any swelling for at least 10 minutes.
• Raise or elevate the affected area if possible, as this can help reduce swelling.
• Avoid scratching the area or bursting any blisters, to reduce the risk of infection – if your child has been bitten or stung, it may help to keep their fingernails short and clean.
• Avoid traditional home remedies, such as vinegar and bicarbonate of soda, as they’re unlikely to help.

The pain, swelling and itchiness can sometimes last a few days.

Removing a sting

If you’ve been stung and the sting has been left in your skin, you should remove it as soon as possible to prevent any more venom being released.

Scrape it out sideways with something with a hard edge, such as a bank card, or your fingernails if you don’t have anything else to hand.

Don’t pinch the sting with your fingers or tweezers because you may spread the venom.

Removing a tick

If you’ve been bitten by a tick and it’s still attached to your skin, remove it as soon as possible to reduce your risk of picking up illnesses such as Lyme disease.

To remove a tick:

• Use a pair of tweezers that will not squash the tick (such as fine-tipped tweezers) or a tick removal tool (available from pet shops or vets).
• Grip the tick as close to the skin as possible to ensure the tick’s mouth isn’t left in the skin.
• Pull steadily away from the skin without crushing the tick.
• Wash your skin with water and soap afterwards, then apply an antiseptic cream to the skin around the bite.

If you use a tick removal tool follow the manufacturer’s instructions.

Do not use a lit cigarette end, a match head or substances such as alcohol or petroleum jelly to force the tick out.

Dealing with caterpillar hairs

If a caterpillar of the oak processionary moth gets on your skin:

• Use tweezers or a pen to remove it.
• Try not to disturb it (for example, by brushing it with your hands) as it will then release more hairs.
• Rinse your skin with running water, allow it to air dry and then use sticky tape to strip off any leftover hairs.
• Use calamine, ice packs or a pharmacy remedy containing 3.5% ammonia to relieve the itch.
• Remove all contaminated clothes and wash at as a high a temperature as the fabric allows.

Do not towel yourself dry after rinsing or use creams containing antihistamine.

Relieving the symptoms of an insect bite or sting

If you have troublesome symptoms after an insect bite or sting, the following treatments may help:

• For pain or discomfort – take over-the-counter painkillers, such as paracetamol or ibuprofen (children under 16 years of age shouldn’t be given aspirin).
• For itching – ask your pharmacist about suitable treatments, including crotamiton cream or lotion, hydrocortisone cream or ointment and antihistamine tablets.
• For swelling – try regularly applying a cold compress or ice pack to the affected area, or ask your pharmacist about treatments such as antihistamine tablets.

See your GP if these treatments don’t help. They may prescribe stronger medicines such as steroid tablets.

When to get medical advice

Contact your GP or call 111 for advice if:

• you’re worried about a bite or sting
• your symptoms don’t start to improve within a few days or are getting worse
• you’ve been stung or bitten in your mouth or throat, or near your eyes
• a large area (around 10cm or more patch of skin) around the bite becomes red and swollen – your GP may refer you to an allergy clinic for further tests or treatment (read about treating allergies)
• you have symptoms of a wound infection, such as pus or increasing pain, swelling or redness – you may need antibiotics
• you have symptoms of a more widespread infection, such as a fever, swollen glands and other flu-like symptoms

When to get emergency help

Dial 999 for an ambulance immediately if you or someone else has symptoms of a severe reaction, such as:

• wheezing or difficulty breathing
• a swollen face, mouth or throat
• feeling sick or being sick
• a fast heart rate
• dizziness or feeling faint
• difficulty swallowing
• loss of consciousness

Emergency treatment in hospital is needed in these cases.

Prevention

There are some simple precautions you can take to reduce your risk of being bitten or stung by insects.

It’s particularly important to follow this advice if you’ve had a bad reaction to an insect bite or sting in the past or you’re travelling to an area where there’s a risk of picking up a serious illness.

Basic precautions to prevent insect bites and stings

The following measures can help you avoid insect bites and stings:

• remain calm and move away slowly if you encounter wasps, hornets or bees – do not wave your arms around or swat at them
• cover exposed skin – if you’re outside at a time of day when insects are particularly active, such as sunrise or sunset, cover your skin by wearing long sleeves and trousers
• wear shoes when outdoors
• apply insect repellent to exposed skin – repellents that contain 50% DEET (diethyltoluamide) are most effective
• avoid using products with strong perfumes, such as soaps, shampoos and deodorants – these can attract insects
• be careful around flowering plants, rubbish, compost, stagnant water, and in outdoor areas where food is served
• never disturb insect nests – if a nest is in your house or garden, arrange to have it removed (GOV. UK has details about pest control services and how your local council can help)
• avoid camping near water, such as ponds and swamps – mosquitoes and horseflies are commonly found near water
• keep food and drink covered when eating or drinking outside, particularly sweet things – wasps or bees can also get into open drink bottles or cans you’re drinking from
• keep doors and windows closed or put thin netting or door beads over them to prevent insects getting inside the house – also keep the windows of your car closed to stop insects getting inside

Avoiding tick bites

Ticks are small spider-like creatures that are mainly found in woodland and heath areas. They attach to your skin, suck your blood and can cause Lyme disease in some cases.

You can reduce your risk of being bitten by a tick if you:

• keep to footpaths and avoiding long grass when out walking
• wear appropriate clothing in tick-infested areas (a long-sleeved shirt and trousers tucked into your socks)
• wear light-coloured fabrics that may help you spot a tick on your clothes
• use insect repellent on exposed skin
• inspect your skin for ticks, particularly at the end of the day, including your head, neck and skin folds (armpits, groin, and waistband)
• check your children’s head and neck areas, including their scalp and make sure ticks are not brought home on your clothes
  • check your pets to help ensure they do not bring ticks into your home in their fur

It’s important to remove any ticks you find as soon as possible.

Extra precautions when travelling abroad

The risk of becoming seriously ill from an insect bite or sting in the UK is small, but in some parts of the world insects can carry serious diseases such as malaria and you need to be extra careful.

It can help to:

• find out what the risks are where you intend to travel and check if you need any vaccinations before travelling – vaccines can prevent some illnesses spread by insects, such as yellow fever. You can use the Travel Health Pro website to do this
• speak to your GP about any extra precautions and medication you might need to take – for example, if you’re visiting an area where there’s a risk of malaria, you may be advised to bring a mosquito net and take antimalarial tablets to avoid malaria

Read more about Travel Health

Insect infestations

If you’ve been bitten by fleas, mites or bedbugs, you may have an infestation in your home. Try to find the source of the infestation before taking steps to eliminate it.

Signs of an infestation

The following are signs of an infestation:

• fleas or flea poo in your animal’s fur or bedding
• crusting on your dog’s fur is a sign of fleas
• excessive scratching and grooming are a sign of fleas in cats
• dandruff (flakes of skin) on your cat or dog is a sign of mites
• spots of blood on your bed sheets are a sign of bedbugs
• an unpleasant almond smell is a sign of bedbugs

Speak to your vet if you’re unsure whether your pet has fleas or mites.

Eliminating an infestation

Once you’ve identified the cause of the infestation, you’ll need to eliminate it.

For flea infestations, treat the animal, its bedding, household carpets and soft furnishings with an insecticide. Thoroughly vacuum your carpets and soft furnishings.

For mite infestations, you should seek advice from your vet as aggressive treatment is required.

For bedbug infestations, your home will need to be thoroughly treated with an insecticide by a reputable pest control company. GOV.UK has information about how your local council can help.

The information on this page has been adapted by NHS Wales from original content supplied by NHS website nhs.uk

Last Updated:
26/10/2022 11:10:57

Bug bite symptoms you should never ignore

With backyard barbeques, picnics and summer hikes come bug bites — and quite often, lots of them. Some bites may go unnoticed, while others are so itchy and swollen you may be willing to try an array of over-the-counter remedies to get some relief.

That fact is, even seemingly harmless bug bites can lead to complications that may require medical attention. In other cases, insect bites and stings that aren’t dangerous for some people could trigger allergic reactions in others. Certain insects could also spread infections, such as Lyme disease or Rocky Mountain spotted fever (RMSF) in parts of the United States and other locations around the world.

How do you know if your nagging bug bite is worth your concern? The answer depends on what bit you, how your body reacts to the bite, and whether or not it becomes infected, says Miriam Zylberglait, MD, an internist at HCA Florida Aventura Primary Care in Aventura, Florida.

“In general, bug bites are benign conditions,” says Dr. Zylberglait. “However, they may cause different types of complications, which could be as simple as a rash, but could also include more serious problems, like skin infections or allergic reactions.” 

What bit you?

Some bugs are stealthy. You might not realize that you’ve been bitten until it’s too late. In some cases, you may not even be sure what landed on your skin. A bug bite or sting usually isn’t cause for alarm, but there are situations that may require medical attention:

Ticks: If you find an engorged tick embedded in your skin, it may have been there a while. It can take a tick up to 2 hours to get ready to feed after planting itself on your skin, and it usually takes around 36 to 48 hours of feeding for them to transmit diseases such as Lyme disease.   

Not all ticks found in the U.S. carry diseases, but some blacklegged ticks can transmit infections. These include Lyme disease and anaplasmosis, an infection that is usually mild to moderate but in rare cases can be fatal. American dog ticks, Rocky Mountain wood ticks, and brown dog ticks can spread Rocky Mountain spotted fever, one of the deadliest tick-borne diseases in the U.S.

Ticks that spread these diseases are typically found in certain parts of the country, particularly the northeast or mid-Atlantic region and the north-central states (Minnesota, Wisconsin and Michigan).

Most people with Lyme disease — roughly 70 to 80 percent—develop a bulls-eye rash, but not everyone will. Other signs of a tick-borne illness may include:

• Chills
• Joint or muscle aches
• Swollen lymph nodes
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Stomach pain
• Fever
• Red or purple-spotted rash
• Fatigue
• Headaches

If blood tests confirm that you have Lyme disease, the bacterial infection can be effectively treated with antibiotics.

“Lyme disease symptoms may go beyond the typical rash and can also affect your joints and long-term heart health if not appropriately treated,” says Zylberglait. Some of these longer-term issues could include muscle and joint pain, arthritis, memory problems and nerve damage, depending on how far the disease has progressed. 

In most cases, early treatment of Rocky Mountain spotted fever and anaplasmosis with antibiotics can reduce the risk of serious complications. If left untreated, both can be life-threatening.  

Venomous spiders: Most spider bites are harmless and only result in some discoloration, swelling, or itchiness. Spider bites can often be treated by simply cleaning the area with mild soap and water and applying an antibiotic cream to prevent an infection. If you were bitten in the arm or leg, it might also be helpful to apply a cool, damp cloth to the area and keep it elevated. You may need antibiotics if the bite becomes infected (more on that later on).

Bites from black widow, brown recluse and other venomous spiders, however, can trigger more serious reactions. You may not always be able to see what bit you, but if you do catch a glimpse, keep in mind that brown recluse spiders usually have a violin-shaped pattern on their body near their legs. Black widows have a large round body, with a red or orange hourglass marking on their underbelly. See a healthcare provider (HCP) if you have:

• Pain and swelling that extends to your stomach, back, or chest
• Stomach cramping
• Sweating or chills
• Nausea
• Body aches
• Dark blue or purple area toward the center of the bite that may turn into a large wound

If you’ve been bitten by a black widow, and you’re experiencing severe pain, your HCP may recommend an injection of antivenom — a medication that helps stop the effects of the toxins that have entered your body. In some cases, a brown recluse bite may cause an ulcer or lesion to form, which may require further medical treatment. It’s also important to see an HCP if you haven’t had a tetanus booster within the past five years.

Mosquitos: Certain mosquitos can spread infections, including West Nile Virus, Zika virus, dengue fever, and malaria. These infections aren’t as much of a concern in the U.S. as they are in other parts of the world, but they’re not completely out of the question.

In 2015 and 2016, there were major Zika virus outbreaks in the Americas, with widespread transmission of the virus in Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands, along with limited local spread in Florida and Texas. Since 2018, no reported cases of Zika transmission by mosquitoes have occurred in the continental U.S., and no confirmed cases of Zika disease have occurred in the U.S. since 2019.  

If you’ve recently traveled to South America, the Caribbean, the South Pacific, Southeast Asia, Africa, and any other high-risk regions, watch out for possible warning signs of mosquito-borne diseases, such as:

• Fever
• Joint pain
• Red and itchy eyes
• Aches and pain
• Nausea
• Rash

“It’s very important for you to communicate to your physician that you were in any of these areas recently so that they can think through the proper diagnosis,” Zylberglait says.

There are not many specific treatment options for mosquito-borne illnesses, but acetaminophen can help reduce your fever. Your HCP may also advise you to stay hydrated and rest as much as possible. Malaria, caused by a parasite that infects red blood cells, requires specific drugs but treatment depends on which parasite is involved, as well as your age and symptoms. Treatment may also differ for women who are pregnant.

Every year, millions of people worldwide are infected with malaria, and hundreds of thousands die. Malaria transmission is most likely to occur in Africa, South America, and Asia and is highest in sub-Saharan Africa and parts of the South Pacific. About 2,000 cases of malaria occur each year in the U.S., mostly in travelers from countries where transmission is more likely.

Other mosquito-borne diseases may lead to problems, as well. West Nile virus (WNV) is the leading cause of mosquito-borne illness in the continental U.S., according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Some people with West Nile virus may develop meningitis or encephalitis (inflammation of the brain). That may require additional treatment and a hospital stay involving intravenous fluid treatment, breathing support or nursing care.

Outbreaks of dengue fever occasionally occur in the continental U.S., usually in travelers who were infected elsewhere, though it’s common in the U.S. territories of Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands and American Samoa. Severe dengue fever (sometimes called “breakbone” fever because it can cause very intense joint and bone pain) can cause internal bleeding and other complications. See an HCP immediately if you develop:

• Stomach pain or tenderness
• Persistent vomiting
• Bleeding from nose or gums
• Restlessness or irritability
• Bloody stool or vomit

Recognizing allergic reactions

Like peanuts, dust, pollen and other allergens, some people are allergic to specific bugs. Insects that can trigger allergic reactions include mosquitos, kissing bugs, bees, wasps, and fire ants. If you’re not allergic, a typical reaction may include pain, swelling, and redness or discoloration that’s confined to the sting or bite area. But if you’re having an allergic reaction, the symptoms may be more severe. Allergic reactions can cause:

• Hives, itching, or swelling in areas beyond the sting site
• Abdominal cramping
• Vomiting, nausea, or diarrhea
• Tightness in the chest or difficulty breathing
• Swelling of the mouth, tongue, or throat
• Difficulty swallowing

In severe cases, insect bites can trigger a life-threatening allergic reaction, called anaphylaxis. This is a medical emergency that requires immediate attention and treatment with epinephrine, corticosteroids and antihistamines. Symptoms include difficulty breathing, dizziness, a sharp drop in blood pressure, loss of consciousness or cardiac arrest (sudden loss of heart function). These usually occur within 5 to 30 minutes — and sometimes up to an hour — of getting bitten.

Find the closest HCA Florida Healthcare emergency room here.

“While the bite might not look so dangerous and may be very benign for the majority of people, it could be very serious if you’re allergic,” says Zylberglait. “If you recognize these symptoms, you should seek help immediately.” And if your HCP has prescribed an epinephrine pen for allergic reactions, keep it with you at all times, so you can self-administer your medication when you need it.

Spot warning signs of infection

Regardless of the insect, a bite or sting could become infected if you scratch or pick at the area. Bacteria, such as streptococcus and staphylococcus epidermidis, are commonly found on the skin, Zylberglait explains. If left untreated, infected bug bites could lead to a deeper, more dangerous skin infection called cellulitis, which requires treatment with antibiotics. You should see an HCP as soon as possible if you have symptoms of cellulitis, such as:  

• Fever
• Chills
• Swelling, discoloration, redness, or red streaking around the bite area
• Cold sweats
• Nausea
• Trouble concentrating
• Blisters, pus, or drainage
• Swollen lymph nodes
• An area that’s warm or painful to the touch

Prevention is best

Avoid insect bites and stings with the help of protective clothing and repellents. Wear long-sleeved shirts and pants when possible, and tuck your pants into your socks to form an extra barrier.

It’s also important to plan ahead when traveling. Take extra precautions if you’re going to areas where mosquito- and tick-borne diseases are common. In some cases, your HCP may suggest receiving certain vaccines or taking preventive medications in preparation for your trip, Zylberglait notes.

And if you’ve had a previous allergic reaction to an insect bite, she adds, make sure you are familiar with any symptoms or red flags, in case it happens again.

Beware! Midges! | CSM “Expert”

Very often the question is asked: “Suddenly, a red swollen, itchy spot appeared on the child’s body. What to do with it and how to treat it?”
So in the summer, most often the reason for this is not even mosquito bites, but small midges.

Midges attack on hot summer days, near open water bodies, in the field and even on their own plot. Most often, these insects attack during daylight hours. They are very attracted to the smell of sweat and light-colored clothing. These insects are considered dangerous because their saliva contains toxic substances. During the bite, they enter the human blood, something like an anesthetic (the bite is not immediately felt). And only a few minutes after the bite, severe swelling may appear, and after that – burning or itching (depending on individual allergic characteristics).

This exposure often results in an allergic reaction, which in some cases may require inpatient treatment under close medical supervision. How does the bite manifest itself? It all depends on the characteristics of the organism. Swelling, pain and itching may appear both immediately and after a while. The main manifestations: reddening of the skin, burning and itching, blisters, in adults, in response to the toxin, an increase in pressure, suffocation is possible.

The most simple and effective methods of treating a bite:
• Rinse the skin at the site of the bite with clean drinking water.
• To minimize the reaction to insect saliva, lather the area with laundry soap.
• Dry the skin with a towel or soft cloth. It is strictly forbidden to rub the affected area.
• Even if the bite does not cause an allergy, you should take an antihistamine (Suprastin, Zodak, Zyrtec, Loratodin, Suprastinex). In this case, the body’s reaction to toxins will be less negative.
• You can anoint a skin lesion with menthol toothpaste. It produces a cooling effect and relieves even large swelling.
• You can apply lotions based on ordinary table vinegar. To do this, you need to mix it with water in equal proportions. In the resulting solution, you need to moisten a gauze swab, apply to the affected area of ​​\u200b\u200bthe skin and hold for 30-40 minutes.
• The bite site can be anointed with a soda solution (1 teaspoon per 200 ml of water) applied to the skin.
• Treat the resulting wound with any antiseptic – hydrogen peroxide, furacilin.

When a midge stings in the eye, it is best to immediately seek help from a specialist – examination and prescription of special eye drops will help to avoid quite serious consequences!

Currently, there are many modern means – ointments, creams, aerosols that can protect against insidious insects; the main thing is to make sure that it is acceptable for children of different ages. To protect the child from the bite of an insidious midge, you should not choose the banks of rivers and streams overgrown with grass and shrubs as a place for a walk. Mosquito nets should be present on the windows of the house, and a canopy over the crib will not be superfluous for babies. By taking reasonable precautions, the risk of being bitten by insects and causing dangerous viral infections can be minimized.

Thank you for your attention and stay healthy!

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7 Insect Bites You Shouldn’t Ignore | Health

Do you like to be in nature often, in the country? Find out which types of insect bites are especially dangerous. If you detect a bite in time, this will reduce the risk of negative consequences.

While most bites can only be itchy, others can be extremely dangerous and cause a host of health problems if the bite is not immediately attended to. Here is a list of insects you should be wary of.

7 dangerous insect bites

1. Bed bug bites

Although bed bug bites are not dangerous, they must be recognized immediately. When a bed bug bites you, it injects an anesthetic and an anticoagulant (a chemical that inhibits blood clotting) into your body. For this reason, we do not notice or feel the bite at all.

Symptoms

“Actually, most people don’t notice a bite until it starts showing up about a few days after the first contact,” says MD. The bite area may be swollen and slightly reddened, as well as itching, which we feel after a mosquito or flea bite.

Of course, bed bugs do not carry diseases. Despite this, should be destroyed immediately as soon as you notice them on your mattress. We will tell you how to get rid of them.

If you do not want to resort to the help of special services, but to destroy these insects yourself, then you will need an aerosol for this. To destroy all pests, it is enough to treat the place of residence of bedbugs with a simple spray with insecticide. Thanks to this, you will no longer have any marks on your skin from bedbug bites and you will be able to sleep well.

Bite instructions

After you’ve cleared your bed of these creatures, take care of the bite. In no case should it be scratched, otherwise it will lead to secondary skin infections. You must be as careful as possible with the bite area. It is best to consult a doctor who will advise you on an itch reliever.

Some doctors suggest using antiseptic creams or 1% hydrocortisone to relieve itching.

2. Grass mite bites (chiggers)

Symptoms

After a tick bite, a red scar appears with bright red dots in the center, and you feel intense and persistent itching.

These insects are so tiny that it is almost impossible to detect them with the naked eye. They can be seen when they gather in a group. In this case, you see a distinct red spot on the skin.

According to many doctors, ticks bite any part of the body, but most often they target the waist and lower legs . Within hours of being bitten, you begin to feel itchy and develop reddish bumps on your skin that could be confused with pimples, welts, or hives.

At the time of the bite, the tick injects a digestive enzyme under the host’s skin that destroys tissue. These insects are unique in that they feed on human tissue rather than blood. For this reason, the affected area may take several weeks to heal.

Bite instructions

Make an appointment with a doctor and get advice on how to remove itching and unwanted guests from your body. If you can’t see a doctor, start with over-the-counter antihistamines and apply a cold compress to help relieve itching.

3. Bites of scabies, scabies

The disease will be inevitable if the scabies somehow got on your skin. Unfortunately, you will not be able to recognize a tick bite until four or six weeks later.

This is not a typical insect and hence its behavior is drastically different. These mites hide under your skin, lay their eggs there, and then multiply in the epidermis.

Symptoms

The most common symptoms are severe itching that worsens at night and prevents you from getting a good night’s sleep, pimples that look like rashes, blisters and sores that appear due to the fact that we scratch the “damaged” area of ​​​​the skin. The rash most often appears on the palms, shoulders, wrists, or elbows.

Scabies is highly contagious and it is very easy to catch the scabies mite. To do this, it will be enough to hold on to a dirty railing, lie down on someone else’s bed or try on a dress in a store, and the disease can also be transmitted intimately.

Instructions for what to do after a bite

If you notice any symptoms of scabies in yourself, your friend or your relative, take them to the doctor or go to the doctor yourself. Your doctor will give you a prescription to help you kill the scabies mites and their eggs.

4. Wasp sting

Symptoms

In most people, the wasp sting will be reddened, slightly swollen, and itchy and tingly during and after the sting of the wasp. A small welt usually appears around the bite with a white dot in the center.

Experts say that some people may experience more severe symptoms. Unlike most people, the swelling may be larger, and the bite site may also turn redder. These symptoms will get worse for two or three days after the bite.

It is very important to observe yourself during the first few minutes after being bitten. Some people can help themselves at home, but not everyone heals the bite so easily. After all, there are people who are allergic to poison and they may develop anaphylactic shock.

“If your face, lips or throat are very swollen, you feel dizzy, it becomes difficult to breathe and your pulse speeds up, then you should immediately consult a doctor,” doctors say.

If you know you are allergic to wasps, be sure to take allergy medication with you when you go for a walk.

Post-bite instructions

If you feel only mild discomfort, wash the affected area with soap and water and apply a cold compress to reduce swelling.

If you are stung by a bee, do not forget to immediately remove the sting with tweezers. Wasps don’t leave stingers behind.

5. Spider Bite

While most spiders are not venomous, some still bite and can leave marks on your skin.

Some people think that the best way to tell if you need to worry about a spider bite is to look at the spider that bit you.

After being attacked by brown recluse, black widow, tarantula, jumping spider you may need medical attention. However, if you haven’t spotted a spider, the symptoms will help you determine what problems you might be facing.

Symptoms

Doctors say: “There are spiders that are harmless to us. Their bite will cause the same reaction of the body as the bite of an ordinary insect. A red, swollen, sometimes itchy or painful bump will appear on your skin. However, bites are dangerous spiders like black widow and brown recluses can cause severe pain, swelling, sweating, cramps and chills “.

Post-bite instructions

If the itchy rash becomes unbearable, you feel pain around the area from the bite, or the bite turns into a blister, you need medical attention.

Experts tell us that the bite of a dangerous spider causes headaches, it also becomes difficult for us to breathe and our body temperature constantly fluctuates.If you notice such symptoms, then you need to see a doctor for treatment within 24 hours after the bite.

6. Bite of parasitiform mites (Ixodida)

Parasitiform mites are small arachnids. After initial contact, it takes the tick 24 to 48 hours for it to transfer the bacteria into the human bloodstream.

They can carry a number of harmful diseases such as Rocky Mountain spotted fever, Colorado tick fever, Powassan virus and, in particular, Lyme disease. Black-legged ticks carry Lyme disease.

Ticks are attracted to warm, moist areas of the skin. If you spend a lot of time outdoors, it is recommended to carefully inspect the areas where you sweat after a walk.

Symptoms

Most people know that the traditional symptom is a distinct round skin rash that appears around the bite. This is the most common symptom, but not everyone gets this rash. Signs such as muscle cramps, joint pain, fever, headache and fatigue also alert us that we have been bitten.

Post-bite instructions

If you are bitten by this tick, contact a healthcare professional as soon as possible, who will remove the entire tick safely.

Ticks transmit different diseases in different countries and, for your own safety, check with your doctor if you need additional testing or treatment to prevent disease.

7. Mosquito (mosquito) bite

We are all very familiar with these insects.

Symptoms

After their bite, a red, raised bump forms, which is very itchy. Some people may develop more severe symptoms such as small blisters due to an allergy to mosquito saliva. Mosquito bites may be more dangerous for immunocompromised people.

If a mosquito bite causes severe swelling, fever, hives, headache, and swollen lymph nodes because of the bite, you should see a doctor.

These insects can spread dangerous diseases like Zika, malaria or yellow fever. Be very careful in geographic areas where mosquitoes may be present.

Interesting facts

There are a huge number of mosquitoes in the world that transmit various diseases.

• Dengue fever. The yellow fever mosquito is the carrier of this fever.
• Malaria. Malarial mosquitoes or Anopheles are vectors of the human parasite Plasmodium malaria, that is, they cause malaria.

Post bite instructions

Never scratch yourself. Many doctors say: “You shouldn’t scratch insect bites for one main reason – infection can occur. If you scratch your skin hard enough, it will burst. Our hands, and especially the areas under our nails, are notorious for carrying germs and bacteria. When you scratch and tear the skin, you increase the chance that these germs and bacteria will get under the skin and cause an infection”

How to protect yourself from bites?

Cover up

Although it’s not the best idea to wear long sleeves and trousers in hot weather, clothing is the best protection against insect bites. Whenever you are outside for an extended period of time, wear long clothes and closed-toed shoes.

Sleep under the net

If you enjoy hiking, cover your tent or hammock with insect net next time so that no flying creatures disturb your sleep.

Apply insect repellent

Apply all natural insect repellent. It is not expensive and guarantees that no insect will dare to bite you.

Examine your body

Whenever you come back from a walk in nature, examine your body for tick bites.

You may not feel the bite, so be sure to look at every part of the body. If you find a tick, put on gloves and carefully remove it with tweezers.

Use straws

Use straws for drinks from cans, as they provide almost 100% protection against dangerous insect bites in the mouth.

Why do we scientifically attract mosquitoes?

Scientists have found that to mosquitoes we can seem as tasty as any dessert to us . Specific DNA attracts unique types of microbacteria into our body – and this is something that mosquitoes simply cannot resist. Many vitamins and chemicals are produced in our blood and, for this reason, various odors appear on our body.

Different mosquitoes prefer different smells from different parts of the body – this is why malarial mosquitoes prefer to bite on the hands and feet, while others prefer the armpits or groin.