What are the signs of bed bug bites. How can you prevent bed bug infestations. What are the most effective treatments for bed bug bites. When should you seek medical attention for bug bites. How can you eliminate bed bugs from your home.

Recognizing Bed Bug Bites: Symptoms and Characteristics

Bed bug bites are a common nuisance that can cause discomfort and concern. These tiny nocturnal pests feed on human blood, leaving behind telltale signs on the skin. But how can you distinguish bed bug bites from other insect bites?

Bed bug bites typically appear as:

• Itchy, red bumps in a group or line
• Hive-like or mosquito bite-like in appearance
• Often with a red dot (puncture) in the center
• Occasionally with a small blister in the center
• Usually found on exposed skin (arms, legs, and face)
• Typically first noticed in the morning

Are bed bug bites always in a straight line? While it’s common to see bed bug bites in a linear pattern, this isn’t always the case. The arrangement of bites can vary depending on how the bugs move across your skin while feeding.

Differentiating Bed Bug Bites from Other Insect Bites

Distinguishing bed bug bites from other insect bites can be challenging. However, certain characteristics can help identify them:

1. Pattern: Bed bug bites often appear in clusters or lines, unlike random mosquito bites.
2. Timing: Bites are typically noticed upon waking, as bed bugs are nocturnal feeders.
3. Location: They commonly appear on exposed skin during sleep.
4. Persistence: Bed bug bites may continue to appear over several days or weeks if the infestation is not addressed.

Diagnosing a Bed Bug Infestation: Beyond the Bites

While bites are a primary indicator, other signs can confirm a bed bug infestation in your home. What should you look for to diagnose a bed bug problem?

• Live bed bugs: Adult bed bugs are visible to the naked eye, measuring about ¼ inch (6 mm). They are flat, oval-shaped, and reddish-brown.
• Bed bug waste: Look for dark brown flecks or spots resembling coffee grounds on bedding or mattress seams.
• Blood stains: Small blood stains on sheets may indicate crushed bed bugs after feeding.
• Eggs and eggshells: Tiny, pale yellow eggs or empty eggshells in crevices of furniture or bedding.

Is it possible to have bed bugs without visible signs? While uncommon, it’s possible to have a small or early-stage infestation without immediately noticeable signs. Regular inspection and vigilance are key to early detection.

Common Hiding Places for Bed Bugs

Knowing where bed bugs hide can help in early detection and prevention. These pests are adept at concealing themselves in various locations:

• Mattress seams and tags
• Box springs
• Bed frames and headboards
• Cracks in furniture
• Behind wallpaper or picture frames
• In electrical outlets
• Under loose carpet edges

Understanding the Bed Bug Bite Reaction

Why do bed bug bites cause such discomfort? The reaction to bed bug bites is primarily due to the insect’s saliva, which contains proteins that can trigger an immune response in humans.

Key points about bed bug bite reactions include:

• Bite reactions vary from person to person, ranging from no visible symptoms to severe allergic responses.
• The itchy, red bumps are the body’s reaction to the bug’s saliva injected during feeding.
• Symptoms may not appear immediately; it can take hours or even days for bites to become noticeable.
• Repeated exposure to bed bug bites may lead to more severe reactions over time.

Can bed bug bites transmit diseases? Unlike some other biting insects, bed bugs are not known to transmit diseases to humans. However, excessive scratching of bites can lead to secondary skin infections.

Factors Influencing Bite Severity

The severity of bed bug bite reactions can vary based on several factors:

1. Individual sensitivity to bed bug saliva
2. Number of bites
3. Previous exposure to bed bug bites
4. Overall health and immune system function
5. Age (children and elderly may react more severely)

Effective Treatment Strategies for Bed Bug Bites

While bed bug bites can be uncomfortable, there are several effective treatments to alleviate symptoms. What are the best ways to treat bed bug bites?

• Topical steroid creams: Apply 1% hydrocortisone cream three times daily to reduce itching.
• Oral antihistamines: Over-the-counter antihistamines can help relieve itching and swelling.
• Cool compresses: Applying a cool, damp cloth to the affected area can soothe irritation.
• Natural remedies: Calamine lotion or a baking soda paste may provide relief.
• Avoid scratching: This prevents secondary infections and promotes faster healing.

How long do bed bug bites typically last? Without scratching, bed bug bites usually heal within 1-2 weeks. However, individual healing times may vary.

When to Seek Medical Attention

While most bed bug bites can be treated at home, certain situations warrant medical attention:

• Signs of a severe allergic reaction (difficulty breathing, swelling of the face or throat)
• Spreading redness or warmth around the bite area, indicating potential infection
• Fever or flu-like symptoms following bites
• Bites that do not improve after 2 weeks of home treatment
• Excessive itching interfering with daily activities or sleep

Preventing Bed Bug Infestations: Proactive Measures

Prevention is key when it comes to bed bugs. How can you protect yourself and your home from these persistent pests?

1. Inspect hotel rooms thoroughly before settling in during travels.
2. Keep luggage off the floor and away from the bed in hotel rooms.
3. Wash and dry clothes on high heat after returning from trips.
4. Regularly inspect your home, especially after guests visit or after traveling.
5. Use protective covers on mattresses and box springs.
6. Reduce clutter to minimize hiding spots for bed bugs.
7. Be cautious when purchasing second-hand furniture or clothing.

Do bed bugs prefer dirty environments? Contrary to popular belief, bed bugs are not attracted to dirt. They are drawn to the warmth of human bodies and the carbon dioxide we exhale. However, cluttered spaces provide more hiding spots for these pests.

Travel Tips to Avoid Bringing Bed Bugs Home

Traveling increases the risk of encountering bed bugs. Here are some tips to avoid bringing them home:

• Research accommodations beforehand for bed bug reports.
• Inspect hotel rooms immediately upon arrival, focusing on the bed area.
• Keep luggage on elevated racks, away from walls and furniture.
• Use luggage liners or plastic bags to store clothes.
• Upon returning home, unpack directly into the washing machine.
• Vacuum suitcases thoroughly before storing.

Eliminating Bed Bugs: Effective Eradication Methods

Discovering a bed bug infestation can be distressing, but there are effective ways to eliminate these pests. What are the most reliable methods for getting rid of bed bugs?

1. Professional pest control services: Trained experts can assess the infestation and apply appropriate treatments.
2. Heat treatment: Exposing infested items to high temperatures (above 120°F or 49°C) can kill bed bugs at all life stages.
3. Chemical treatments: Insecticides specifically designed for bed bugs can be effective when applied correctly.
4. Vacuuming: Regular, thorough vacuuming can remove visible bed bugs and eggs.
5. Encasement: Using bed bug-proof covers on mattresses and box springs can trap and starve existing bugs.
6. Steam cleaning: High-temperature steam can kill bed bugs on contact in cracks and crevices.

Is it possible to eliminate bed bugs without professional help? While professional treatment is often the most effective approach, diligent and persistent DIY methods can be successful for small infestations.

Myths and Facts About Bed Bug Elimination

Several misconceptions exist about bed bug eradication. Let’s clarify some common myths:

• Myth: Bed bugs can be eliminated by leaving the infested area vacant for a long time.
• Fact: Bed bugs can survive for months without feeding, making abandonment an ineffective strategy.
• Myth: Over-the-counter foggers or “bug bombs” are effective against bed bugs.
• Fact: These products are generally ineffective and may spread the infestation.
• Myth: Bed bugs can be killed by freezing temperatures.
• Fact: While extreme cold can kill bed bugs, home freezers may not reach low enough temperatures for long enough periods.

Long-Term Management: Preventing Reinfestation

After successfully eliminating a bed bug infestation, preventing reinfestation is crucial. How can you maintain a bed bug-free environment in the long term?

1. Regular inspections: Conduct thorough checks of bedding, furniture, and potential hiding spots.
2. Protective measures: Use bed bug-proof encasements on mattresses and box springs.
3. Declutter: Minimize hiding spots by keeping your living space organized and clutter-free.
4. Vacuum frequently: Pay special attention to cracks, crevices, and upholstered furniture.
5. Be cautious with second-hand items: Carefully inspect and clean any used furniture or clothing before bringing it into your home.
6. Educate household members: Ensure everyone knows how to identify and report signs of bed bugs.
7. Professional follow-ups: Consider periodic professional inspections, especially if you live in a high-risk area.

Can bed bugs develop resistance to treatment methods? Like many pests, bed bugs can develop resistance to certain insecticides over time. This underscores the importance of integrated pest management approaches and professional expertise.

Psychological Impact of Bed Bug Infestations

The psychological effects of dealing with bed bugs should not be underestimated. Many people experience:

• Anxiety and stress
• Sleep disturbances
• Feelings of shame or embarrassment
• Social isolation
• Financial strain from treatment costs

Acknowledging these impacts and seeking support when needed is an important part of the recovery process.

Bed Bugs in Public Spaces: Awareness and Prevention

Bed bugs are not confined to homes; they can be found in various public spaces. How can you protect yourself in public areas?

1. Be vigilant in hotels, hostels, and other accommodations
2. Inspect movie theater seats before settling in
3. Be cautious when using public transportation, especially in areas with known infestations
4. Avoid placing personal belongings on upholstered surfaces in public spaces
5. Use protective covers or bags for luggage when traveling

Are some public spaces more prone to bed bug infestations than others? While bed bugs can be found in various locations, areas with high human traffic and turnover, such as hotels and dormitories, may be at higher risk.

Legal and Ethical Considerations

Bed bug infestations can raise legal and ethical questions, particularly in rental properties or shared living spaces:

• Landlord responsibilities for pest control
• Tenant rights regarding infestations
• Disclosure requirements when selling or renting infested properties
• Liability issues in hospitality settings
• Privacy concerns during inspections and treatments

Understanding your rights and responsibilities can help navigate these complex situations effectively.

In conclusion, while bed bug infestations can be challenging and distressing, they are manageable with the right approach. By understanding the signs, implementing effective prevention and treatment strategies, and staying vigilant, you can protect yourself and your living spaces from these persistent pests. Remember, early detection and prompt action are key to successful bed bug management.

Bed Bug Bite – Pediatrician in {Cincinnati}, {OH}

Is this your child’s symptom?

• Bites from bed bugs

If NOT, try one of these:

• Insect Bite

Symptoms of Bed Bug Bites

• Usually cause itchy, red bumps in a group or line
• Often they look like a hive or mosquito bite
• Bite may have a red dot (puncture) in the center. This is where the bed bug bit through the skin.
• Occasionally, a small blister can occur in the center
• Bites are usually on exposed skin (arms, legs and face)
• Bites are usually first noted in the morning

Diagnosis of Bed Bug Bites

• Live bed bugs hide and are not usually seen. Close inspection of the mattress may find some.
• They are ¼ inch (6 mm), flat, oval shaped, reddish-brown bugs.
• Suspect bed bugs if over 3 red bumps in a row are on exposed skin. The bumps or bites are very itchy.
• Bed bug waste is found on bedding or mattress seams. It looks like dark brown flecks or coffee grounds.
• A blood stain on the sheet may sometimes be found. This is from a bug smashed after feeding.

Cause of Bed Bug Bite Reactions

• The skin bumps are the body’s reaction to the bug’s saliva.
• While the bug is sucking blood, some of its secretions get mixed in.
• Bed bugs are small visible blood-sucking bugs. They are about ¼ inch (6 mm) in length.
• During the day, bed bugs hide in the corners of mattresses. They may also be found in bed crevices, floors, and walls.
• At night, the bed bugs come out of hiding. They feed on humans for about 5 minutes.

Prevention of Getting Bed Bugs

• Over half of bed bug infestations within homes start after recent travel.
• Avoid hotels and hostels where bed bugs have been reported.
• When you check into a hotel room, look for signs of bed bugs. Look for flecks of their waste (like coffee grounds) in the bedding and mattress. If present, ask for another room.
• Keep your luggage and clothing on a luggage rack off the floor.
• When you return from a trip, place all travel clothing into the clothes dryer. Run the dryer for 20 minutes. (Reason: The heat will kill any bed bugs or their eggs that are present). One pregnant bed bug can spread bed bugs to an entire house.

Frequent Questions (FAQs)

• Can bed bugs transmit HIV or hepatitis? This is highly unlikely. It has never been reported.
• Do bed bugs like dirt? Not really. What bed bugs like is the warmth of the human body. Dirty and cluttered spaces just give bed bugs a place to hide.
• Are bed bugs too small to be seen? No. You can see adult bed bugs. They are about the size of an apple seed (4-7 mm; ¼ inch).
• Are bed bugs scared of the light? They do prefer darkness. But keeping the light on will not stop bed bugs from biting you.

When to Call for Bed Bug Bite

Care Advice for Bed Bug Bites

1. What You Should Know About Bed Bug Bites:
   • Bed bug bites cause itchy red bumps.
   • They are usually less than ½ inch (12 mm) in size.
   • Some are larger (like a hive). These are normal reactions to a bed bug.
   • A large hive does not mean your child has an allergy.
   • The redness does not mean the bite is infected.
   • Bed bugs do not carry any infectious diseases.
   • Don’t panic: You can get rid of bed bugs from your home.
   • Here is some care advice that should help.
2. Steroid Cream for Itching:
   • To reduce the itching, use 1% hydrocortisone cream (such as Cortaid). No prescription is needed.
   • Apply 3 times a day until the itch is gone.
   • If you don’t have, apply a baking soda paste until you can get some.
3. Allergy Medicine For Itching:
   • If the bite is still itchy, try an allergy medicine by mouth.
   • Benadryl is a good one. No prescription is needed.
4. Try Not to Scratch:
   • Cut the fingernails short.
   • Help your child not to scratch.
   • Reason: Prevent a skin infection at the bite site.
5. Bed Bug Repellents – Not Helpful:
   • Insect repellents do not keep bed bugs from biting.
   • Repellents containing DEET (used on skin) and permethrin (used on clothing) do not help.
6. Removing Bed Bugs from Your Home:
   • Getting rid of bed bugs requires a licensed pest control service.
   • Look in the phone book or on the internet under Pest Control.
7. What to Expect:
   • Any pinkness or redness usually lasts 3 days.
   • The swelling may last 7 days.
   • The itch may last for 2 weeks.
8. Call Your Doctor If:
   • Bite looks infected (redness gets larger after 48 hours)
   • Large red bumps last more than 7 days
   • You think your child needs to be seen
   • Your child becomes worse

And remember, contact your doctor if your child develops any of the ‘Call Your Doctor’ symptoms.

Disclaimer: this health information is for educational purposes only. You, the reader, assume full responsibility for how you choose to use it.

Copyright 2000-2020 Schmitt Pediatric Guidelines LLC.

Bed Bug Bite

This is what a bed bug bite looks like. It can take a few days for the bites to appear after a bed bug bites you. The bites are usually itchy and often have a burning feeling. Try not to scratch and break the skin because this can cause an infection.

Bed Bug

This is a full-grown bedbug. Bedbugs are small brown bugs which are less than ¼ of an inch (6 mm) long. Bedbugs hide in the seams, folds and creases of mattresses and upholstery. They come out at night. During the day, you might see signs of them, such as shed skin, waste or blood marks on the linens.

Bug bites: Symptoms and treatment

From mosquitoes to flies to fire ants, some of the biggest pests come in small sizes.

In many cases, bites from these types of insects are harmless and only cause temporary discomfort. Still, if you’ve ever had an itchy bug bite or a bug bite with swelling, you know just how bothersome bug bites can be. Learn how to identify and get relief from bug bites.

Identifying bug bites

It can be tricky telling what insect bit you. Here’s how to pinpoint other bug bites vs. mosquito bites:

• Mosquitoes: Mosquitoes usually lurk in humid, shaded areas near standing water, such as pools and lakes. Bites result in a stinging sensation followed by a red, itchy mound with a tiny puncture mark at the center.
• Flies: Flies are often found around garbage, food or animal waste. Their bites appear as painful, itchy bumps that may turn into small blisters.
• Fire ants: Fire ants are found on lawns, parks and pastures. They are usually found in southern states in the U.S. Their bite causes an immediate painful, burning sensation, followed by swelling. Cloudy fluid may develop inside the bite.
• Fleas: Fleas only tend to be a problem if you have a pet living in your home. They cause a group of small bites clustered together, typically on areas of your body where clothing fits tightly.
• Bed bugs: Bed bugs hide in beds, chairs, couches, between cushions and in the folds of curtains. They’re more likely to bite at night, and are more active in warm weather. They cause two or three itchy, red bumps in a row that may be topped with a blister.

Bug bite symptoms

Specific symptoms vary based on the type of insect that bit you. Bug bite symptoms can include:

• A small, raised or red bump(s)
• Pain
• Itching
• Swelling
• Blistering

Some people develop an allergic reaction to bug bites. However, allergies to stinging insects, like bees and wasps, are more common. If you have rashes from bug bites or any of these signs of an allergic reaction, seek medical help right away:

• Trouble breathing
• Hives (red bumps) on areas of your skin where you weren’t bitten
• Red, swollen bite that worsens
• Headache or dizziness
• Nausea or vomiting
• Chest pain
• Increased heart rate
• Swelling of your lips, tongue or face

Why do bug bites itch?

Some bugs inject venom into your skin when they bite you, causing an itching sensation. Mosquitoes leave their saliva behind when they bite, which also causes itchiness. Try not to scratch bug bites, because itching can lead to infection.

How long do bug bites last?

Bothersome symptoms from bug bites tend to only last a day or two.

Bug bite treatments

Here’s how to stop bug bites from itching and feeling painful:

• Gently clean bites with soap and water, taking special care not to break blisters.
• Apply a cool compress or ice pack to the affected area. This can help reduce swelling and pain.
• Apply an over-the-counter (OTC) anti-itching cream, such as calamine lotion or hydrocortisone, to the bite several times a day until symptoms go away. Or take an OTC oral antihistamine. Baking soda paste can be used as an alternative if you prefer home remedies for bug bites. Mix baking soda with water until you get a paste consistency and apply it directly to the bug bite.

Before you try other natural remedies such as essential oil for bug bites, talk to your healthcare provider. It isn’t known if certain oils will aggravate some bug bites.

See your healthcare provider if your bite looks like it’s getting worse or you cannot get itch relief. You should also contact your provider if you have signs of infectious bug bites, including redness, warmth, swelling or drainage at the site of the bite or a fever, so you can get treatment. In some cases, cellulitis, a bacterial infection that affects the skin and tissue underneath, can develop after a bug bite.

Bug bite prevention

Bites from mosquitoes, ticks and fleas can carry certain viruses or parasites that can make you sick. For example, there have been cases of West Nile virus and Zika virus in the U.S. from mosquitoes, and, in other parts of the world, mosquitoes can carry malaria and yellow fever. Ticks are known to spread Lyme disease and Rocky Mountain spotted fever. You can help protect yourself from mosquito, tick and flea bites and any harmful germs that they may carry by taking these actions:

• Stay out of tall grass and bushes
• Use an Environmental Protection Agency-registered insect repellent
• Wear light-colored, protective clothing that covers your arms and legs
• Tuck pants into socks when you go hiking

While many bug bites are nothing more than minor nuisances, see your healthcare provider if your bite gets worse or if you have signs of an allergic reaction or infected bug bite. Your provider can offer treatment recommendations so you can get relief.

Clinically reviewed and updated June 2021.

Sources:

1. https://www.aad.org/public/skin-hair-nails/injured-skin/bug-bites-and-stings

2. https://www.cdc.gov/mosquitoes/mosquito-bites/symptoms.html

3. https://www.healthychildren.org/English/health-issues/conditions/from-insects-animals/Pages/Identifying-Insect-Bites-and-Stings.aspx

4. https://www.mayoclinic.org/first-aid/first-aid-insect-bites/basics/art-20056593

5. https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/healthlibrary/conditions

6. https://www.sepsis.org/sepsis-and/cellulitis/

7. https://www.uptodate.com/contents/what-to-do-after-a-tick-bite-to-prevent-lyme-disease-beyond-the-basics

8. https://medlineplus.gov/bedbugs.html

9. https://www.cdc.gov/niosh/topics/outdoor/mosquito-borne/default.html

10. https://familydoctor.org/condition/insect-borne-diseases/

Severe reaction to an insect bite.

First aid and allergy prevention

Insect species

Insect bites are familiar to each of us. This problem is especially relevant for the summer season, when most representatives of the arthropod order can be found literally anywhere where there is land and sunlight. How to prevent insect bites and what to do if this trouble does happen?

Let’s start with the fact that such reactions can be divided into several groups:

• arising in response to the bite of insects sucking blood;
• developing when stinging and introducing poison into the human body by insects;
• appearing upon contact with scales or other particles of living or dead insects (that have entered the respiratory tract or on the skin).

Blood-sucking insects

Most often, of course, these are mosquitoes, and only females bite. When they puncture the skin, they inject a special poison that prevents blood clotting so that they can “eat from the heart. ” This substance causes severe itching. A person itches and can even bring an infection into these scratches. As a result, the wounds become inflamed, can fester and hurt. Itching prevents a person from sleeping, he tosses and turns, often wakes up and gets up in the morning unrested. There is also a category of people who are allergic to mosquito bites . In this case, the wound swells and turns red, and the itching becomes simply unbearable.

After a mosquito bite, you can anoint itchy “bubbles” with an antiallergic gel. If they are already combed, it is recommended to treat the wounds with antiseptics.

How to prevent a mosquito bite?

• install mosquito nets on windows or cover them with gauze;
• use repellents – special means that repel insects. They can be applied to open areas of the skin or clothing, most importantly, avoid contact with the eyes;
• spread lavender or St. John’s wort around the cottage, mosquitoes do not like these herbs;
• use fumigators or insect coils.

Stinging insects

The stings of bees, wasps and bumblebees are extremely painful. The skin around the wound quickly turns red, becomes swollen and edematous. Intense, throbbing pain may begin, body temperature rises, nausea and headache are sometimes observed. But the most dangerous reaction is allergy, which affects from 0.4 to 0.8% of the inhabitants of the Earth. The venom of these insects contains toxic substances that cause a decrease in blood pressure, swelling of the mucous membranes and respiratory failure and convulsions.

According to the severity of an allergic reaction, the following options can be distinguished:

• mild – itchy skin rash
  ;
• moderate – urticaria , nausea and vomiting, respiratory disorders;
• severe – dizziness and confusion join the symptoms described above;
• anaphylactic shock – a sharp decrease in blood pressure, weak pulse, suffocation and loss of consciousness. This is the most difficult condition in which the count goes literally for seconds. In the absence of medical care, death quickly occurs.

What to do if a bee stings?

To begin with, carefully and quickly remove the sting, it is most convenient to do this with tweezers. Then treat the wound with an antiseptic. A cold compress can be applied to reduce pain and swelling. Next, should take a desensitizing drug inside and smear the bite area with antiallergic gel .

Try not to be among the flowers – they are a bright bait for bees and wasps. Be sure to tell the children not to wave their hands at striped insects or try to touch them with their hands.

First aid for insect bites

If itchy spots or vesicles appear on the skin, or the bite site is very swollen and itchy, it is most likely an allergy. In this case, Octagel can be used. Thanks to the components included in the composition, Octagel relieves symptoms immediately after application to the skin, dries quickly and does not stain clothes. Octagel is a multicomponent agent, the main active ingredient of which is ammonium glycyrrhizinate. Ammonium glycyrrhizinate has a pronounced anti-allergic and antipruritic effect, due to which it can significantly reduce itching, redness, irritation, swelling and inflammation in the area of ​​​​the bite.

Octagel should be applied to the entire surface of the skin with manifestations of an allergy to an insect bite using a convenient dispenser.

Prevention of allergy to insect stings

There are several methods for preventing allergic reactions to insect stings. It is recommended to take antihistamines during the period of insect activity. You should try to avoid any contact with insects (wear loose clothing with long sleeves, use special repellents in places where they accumulate).

To combat insects in the room, a large number of various fumigators, liquid and in the form of plates, have been developed. An ultrasonic device is also produced to repel flying and crawling “allergens”. Allergen-specific immunotherapy with a cause-significant allergen is considered the most effective. Such therapy is carried out only if there is a high level of immunoglobulin E in the blood.

Might be interesting

9000 0 Save yourself from the “clouds” of midges. Bites of “summer” insects become stronger | HEALTH: Medicine | HEALTH

06/19/2019 14:39

Valentin Efimov

Estimated reading time: 7 minutes

19412

Swelling and itching are sometimes so unbearable that you have to see a doctor. / Viktor Krutov / AiF

The phrase “as if bitten by a mosquito” no longer seems so harmless. Every year, allergic reactions from the bite of “summer” insects become stronger. Swelling and itching are sometimes so unbearable that you have to see a doctor. About how to protect yourself from biting insects and the body’s reaction to the bites of mosquitoes, midges, bees, hornets, tick larvae, AiF-Tyumen correspondent found out from a professor-parasitologist and a dermatologist .

Small and biting

Every spring and summer, new people turn to doctors with complaints about the consequences of insect bites. Most often, mosquitoes and midges are brought to the doctor’s appointment.

Despite their size, the bite of the latter is indeed much more toxic than that of the mosquito brothers. Together with saliva, the midge introduces a large amount of poison, and therefore often, in addition to the usual redness, swelling appears. Children are especially sensitive to the toxic bite of midges.

Gnus, a swarm of mosquitoes. Photo: pixabay.com

“You can save yourself from the “cloud” of midges both with the help of folk remedies, such as vanillin, and thanks to repellents,” says parasitologist, professor at the State Agrarian University of the Northern Trans-Urals Vladimir Domatsky . “But all these remedies have a short-term effect.”

If mosquitoes can be repelled by repellents for a long time, then midges are practically not afraid of various aerosols and creams and after a while they go on the “attack” again.

Reliable protection against them does not yet exist. Therefore, it remains only to wait for them to disappear. According to popular belief, this will happen with the advent of dragonflies. The most aggressive predators among flying insects will appear in July, before that you will have to save yourself from the midges on your own.

Allergy and immunity

According to dermatovenereologist of the Tyumen Regional Dermatovenerological Dispensary Yulia Rostovtseva , local allergic reactions after an insect bite develop typically: 24-48 hours after the attack, a delayed-type reaction occurs. From repeated bites, a reaction in the form of a nettle burn may already occur. However, if the insect bites very often, then, on the contrary, immunological resistance can develop, and the body will no longer react so sharply to the poison, this often happens with beekeepers.

“A special reaction of the organism is pseudolymphoma. In this case, a dense, persistent red-brown knot develops at the site of the bite, often this happens from the bite of forest and scabies mites, as well as fleas.

Determining the bite of arthropods and insects is not as easy as it might seem, so often not an accurate diagnosis is made, but only a suspicion. In each case, the treatment is determined depending on the area of ​​​​the lesion, the number and severity of bites. There is no universal treatment. And in the case of severe, recurring reactions, patients are referred to an allergist.

Who bit you?

• Hymenoptera

This order includes bees, bumblebees, wasps and hornets. The bite site should be carefully examined, as the sting may still be there. In this case, it must be carefully removed with small tweezers, being careful not to touch the poison sac. The local reaction to stings is well known – pain, erythema, swelling and in some cases blistering. In addition, systemic reactions can occur over the next few minutes, leading to pruritus, urticaria, anaphylaxis, and acute circulatory failure in allergic individuals.

Bee. Photo: From the personal archive / Alexei Nikolenko
Allergy. Photo: pixabay.com

• Diptera

This great joy includes flies and mosquitoes. A mosquito bite starts as an itchy, pink blister that then develops into a hard nodule that lasts for hours and days. Accession of a pustular infection occurs as a result of scratching.

Mosquito bite. Photo: pixabay.com

• Thrombiculosis

Larvae of mites of the genus Trombicula occur during the warm summer months. They are found in flowers, shrubs, vines and trees, from where they fall to the ground on their victims. Then they move, feeding on blood, until they encounter an obstacle in their path in the form of a collar, belt or belt. Typical clinical signs of thrombiculosis are groups of intensely itchy nodules located along the obstruction line.

Thrombidiasis leg injury. Photo: Wikipedia/TimVickers, Public Domain

What smells repel mosquitoes?

1. One hundred grams of camphor or valerian evaporated over a burner will get rid of flies and mosquitoes even in very large rooms.

2. Finely chop fresh bird cherry or rowan leaves and rub over exposed skin.

3. Essential oils of clove, basil, anise, eucalyptus. You can lubricate exposed areas of the skin (five to ten drops in a glass of water), or drop oil on a fire source – in a fireplace, a fire, on a candle or a heated pan.

4. Put fresh elderberry branches in the room, they repel mosquitoes in the same way as the smell of tomato leaves.

5. If you decide to sit in nature, throw juniper twigs into the fire.

6. The smell of cedar oil repels not only mosquitoes, but also flies and cockroaches.

If you have already been bitten

The following folk remedies will help relieve irritation and itching at the site of the bite: aloe juice, onion juice (cut the onion and apply to the bite), parsley leaves, very salty water.

mosquitoes allergies doctors

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