Insect bites tend to cause one or more red bumps that are itchy and sometimes painful. There is, quite often a small hole in the centre of the bite which can contain a part of the sting left by the insect. Normally insect bites are not dnagerous unless the person who has been bitten has an allergy. Wasp and Bee stings are the type of bite or sting that are most normal for people to be allergic to.
Where Do Insect Bites Come From?
Insect bites can come from many different places. Domestic pets commonly carry insects, like fleas. This can affect dogs, cats and even pet birds.
Bed bugs can be found around the house on all types of soft furnishings including sofas, chairs and beds.
Any time that you are outside you are open to being bitten by insects as they are everywhere.
Travelling can also pose an increased risk, depending on where you go to, of bites from mosquitoes, ticks and sandflies.
Which Insects Can Bite or Sting?
The most common insects to be bitten by are midges, gnats, horseflies, bees, wasps, ants, some spiders, fleas, lice, Mosquitoes, ticks and sandflies.
Wasp stings tend to cause the highest number of allergic reactions out of any bite or sting in the UK. However, once you have had an allergic reaction it is impossible to predict what would happen the next time your are stung or bitten by the same insect. 20% of people who have an allergic reaction to an insect bite or sting have a milder reaction the next time or no reaction at all.
What Do Insect Bites Look Like?
Insect bites normally appear as one or more sore, swollen red lumps on the skin. There is sometimes a small hole in the middle which may have the end of the insects sting poking out.
If you wake up with an itchy or painful lump, the first thing to do is to check if there are any others on your body. If there is only a single bump or 4-5 in the same area then you have probably been bitten or stung. Fleas normally biten 4 or 5 times in the same areas so they tend to appear in small grops of lumps on your body.
Some children’s diseases can look very similar to insect bites. If you are in any doubt at all call your doctor.
Insect Bite Symptoms
When your are bitten the most common symptoms are that the skin becomes inflamed, swollen, itchy and can be quite painful. Bites can become infected if they are scratched. Occasionally bites can cause allergic reactions. Be on the look out for a rash or swelling. If these symptoms seem to get worse instead of better then contact a doctor.
Call your doctor immediately if you notice any of the following symptoms:
- the person has been stung by many insects at the same time
- a rash or swelling that gets worse instead of better
- if the site is red, tender and swollen
- headache
- dizziness
- nausea (feeling sick)
- pains in the chest
- choking or wheezing
- difficulty breathing.
These are all signs of an allergic reaction and could be dangerous if the person who has been bitten goes in to shock. See a doctor immediately or call an abulance.
How To Treat an Insect Bite or Sting
The first thing to do is remove the sting. This is done best by using tweezers or by scraping it out using a credit card. Be careful not to press the sting out as this can cause the poison to spread further beneath the skin.
Wash the area with soap and water and, if possible, apply ice to cool the area around the bite. Try to elevate the bitten area if possible to stop the bite from swelling.
If needed use a cream or gel or use an antihistamine to soothe the itch. If you know of any allergies to insect bites within your family then consult your doctor or pharmacist before travelling about waht you should take with just incase. They may suggest taking antihistamine tablets with you or tkaing an EpiPen injection. Make sure you are aware of how to use any medication correctly before you travel.
If you have a rash or an itch thet requires medical treatment or if you feel unwell in any way, avoid driving as there is a chance of passing out.
If you are travelling to an area that may have malaria then consult your GP about which malaria medications to take. These normally need to be started before you leave.
How To Avoid Insect Bites and Stings
- If you find youself surrounded by a swarm of bees or wasps, stay calm. Sudden movements can cause them to
attack. - Insect repellents can be very effective. Citronella Patches have been found to be very effective.
- Avoid hanging around things that insects are drawn to such as flowers, trees, bushes and piles of wood.
- Be careful if you are eating or drinking (especially sweet things) outside.
- Avoid scented creams and strong fragrances as these can attract insects. Also bright colours can have a similar effect.
- Long sleeves, long trousers, socks, shoes and gloves help protect you from stings.
- Close the windows in the house and the car to keep the insects out.
- Look out for insects’ nests in your home or garden and have them removed immediately.