Normally, when we have insect bites, we downplay the fact, since sometimes we confuse them with the type of injury that mosquitoes leave. This is a problem that we cannot let go unnoticed, so it is important to know in time what has bitten us to avoid complications in our health.
How to spot the most common insect bites
Here are some of the insects that usually cause marks on our skin after their bite, and to be able to recognize it, we leave you this small but practical guide.
1. Ant sting
Ant sting occurs when ants inject poison into people’s skin, which causes a strong itch, the skin becomes irritated and the area feels hot. You can avoid the symptoms of this sting by applying a cortisone cream to the place where the ant bit you. Also, if blisters appear, avoid breaking them so that the area does not become infected.
2. Wasp or bee sting
They are very painful stings because the stinger of the wasp or bee remains embedded in the area. Since there are many allergy sufferers, they must take the necessary precautions to avoid short-term damage, such as inflammation that in some cases, does not allow them to breathe normally, so going to the doctor urgently is usually the most advisable in these cases.
3. Mosquitos
They are subcutaneous insect bites and have the appearance of reddish bubbles . In this case, you don’t need any more attention, so ideally you can apply a cream and massage gently. In case you have any secondary discomfort, you should see a doctor. Among them, you can see inflammation of the glands, fever, joint pain or breakouts on the skin. This indicates that the mosquito was infected.
4. Spider bite
Most spider bites are harmless. Except those received by the famous black widow or the brown recluse spider . The shape of a spider bite are two points that identify the area where you have been bitten. So it is very particular and easy to identify.
5. Tick bite
Its bite is dangerous in people since it can cause the transmission of diseases. The most common are Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever and Lyme disease . If a tick bites you, you should remove it immediately with tweezers. Hold it firmly and gently pull up to remove it from the skin. Avoid using oil or heat. Once it’s removed, you should clean the area with soap and water, but you can add rubbing alcohol if you want. Consultation with a specialist is recommended after this type of bite.
6. Flea bite
The flea bites are recognized because they are small red bumps on the skin that cause itching too. You should start by washing the affected area with soap and water. Then apply a little cream or ointment to reduce itching. It is advisable to avoid scratching as it could cause an infection.
7. Scorpion sting
With this type of insect bite you must be very careful, so you must take into account three important factors to know its level of severity:
- What is the type of scorpion that stung you?
- The age of the person (it is more dangerous for children).
- The amount of poison in the body.
Remember that if you continue to feel bad, you should go to the doctor to receive the necessary attention and quickly.
Indications for treating the sting
Begin by carefully removing the stinger from the person’s body. Avoid using tweezers to remove it, because if you push them too hard, the venom sac could explode and the level of poison inside the body will increase. We recommend using a pocket knife to scrape the area. Once the bite is removed, the affected area should be thoroughly washed with soap and water. Then apply ice for 10 minutes, let it rest and repeat the process again.
8. Bed bug bite
The bites of bedbugs are commonly found in parts of the body that are most likely to be exposed to bedbugs during sleep: hands, neck, face, shoulders, legs and arms. Although this is not always the case, bed bug bites are often grouped together in a small area and can sometimes occur in a line or zigzag pattern.
If you develop a rash after being bitten by a bed bug, avoid scratching the affected area. If the rash persists or becomes infected, medical assistance is recommended.