Millions of people around the world suffer from bug bites or stings each year. Most cases are mild while it can have more serious effects, some are even life-threatening. Knowing more about insect bites can make sure that you are never caught unawares and that you can deal with bites more effectively. Bug bites can come in all shapes and sizes and leave even more symptoms. So here is what you need to know about insect bites.
What You Need to Know About Bug Bites
Identifying the bites
Unless you catch it in the act, it can be difficult for you to know which insect has bitten you. For example, two of the most common bites include the common bed bug bite vs mosquito bites. Both of these insects prey on humans and animals and suck blood to survive. These bites can look similar at first glance, but they are different in certain aspects.
Both mosquito and bed bug bites both look like small, red bumps but mosquito bites aren’t likely to be a solid red bump. They start out puffy and white with a reddish tint before turning a brownish-red a day or two later. Bed bug bites are usually completely red and look like pimples. They often become splotchy. Identifying these differences can help you treat them more effectively.
Signs of infection
Approximately a third of bug bites get infected. When that happens, it is important to treat them properly. If you see signs of infection like oozing and swelling, then you should cover the bite with a regular bandage and call the doctor. More troubling symptoms include chills or a fever. If you’re concerned about a bite, it’s always best to have it looked at.
Allergic reactions
Some people are allergic to insect stings and bug bites. This can be severe. This is usually evident when blisters develop on the skin. If you have a mild allergic reaction, you should use an antihistamine as soon as possible. This will block the chemical that is released during an allergic reaction.
You can also use a cold compress to ease the pain and reduce the swelling. Getting kids to use an ice pack can be difficult, so fun boo boo ice packs with animal characters are a good thing to have on hand.
Acetaminophen can be given if a bite is painful. Depending on the age of the person, ibuprofen can be used, as well, as long as they don’t have asthma that is aspirin or NSAID sensitive. If the swelling continues to be severe then you should seek a doctor’s advice.
Preventing Bites
Bites usually occur when you are outside in nature. To reduce the opportunity for bugs to bite you, you should avoid wearing light colors and strong fragrances. Always keep your shoes on and keep your body covered with clothing and a hat. When hiking, long sleeved shirts, pants, and socks should be used to cover most skin. Also, you should avoid picking fruit from the ground and drinking from open drink bottles.
If you live in an area where mosquitos proliferate, be sure to set up some mosquito traps. The one’s we use are available on Amazon. Each trap offers 1500 sq. ft. of protection, so we have them set up on both ends of our front porch and on both ends of our back patio. I want to get another set so we can set them up near the trampoline, too, since the kids play out there a lot.
INZECTO Mosquito Control Trap – 2 Traps
Be sure to use insect repellent if you’re going to be outdoors.
ALWAYS do a tick check after spending time in nature! If you do find a tick, be sure to remove it properly to reduce the risk of complications. It’s a good idea to save your tick in a sealed plastic bag, either in the refrigerator or freezer, so that it can be tested if you develop symptoms after a tick bite.
Of course, these tips may not prevent all bites, but they will help reduce them.
Bug Bites are Annoying and Can Be Serious
Bug bites are usually minor but can still be inconvenient to you. They are itchy and can even develop into something more substantial if you are not careful. You should make sure to protect yourself as much as possible and ensure that you contact your doctor if you need to.
