By karleia steiner
One of the downsides of spending any time outdoors is coming into contact with biting insects. These irritating bugs can cause painful, itchy bites, and sometimes identifying the culprits can be difficult. Below we’ve listed five of the most common offenders, and ways to identify (and treat) their bites.
1. Mosquitoes
A mosquito bite appears as a raised, itchy welt that’s caused by our body’s natural reaction to the bug’s saliva. Itching causes more irritation, and can develop into a nasty infection. The best way to treat a mosquito bite is to wash it as soon as possible with an antiseptic (or even water), and apply an antihistamine ointment to the area.
2. Ants
Depending on the species of ant (and the website Solutions Self Chem lists nine common types of ants in North America alone), ant bites can be anything from small, itchy bumps to large, fluid-filled pustules. This variation has to do with the different species’ methods of defense: though most ants are biters, some, like the fire ant, will deliver a potent sting. Try to avoid itching the area, thoroughly wash the bite, and cover it if necessary.
3. Spiders
Like ants, spider bites also varies by species, but this has more to do with the length of their fangs than with their venom. Even though the majority of spiders are actually quite poisonous, most bites don’t deliver much venom through our thick skins, and only result in an itchy, red bump. Keep the bite clean, and be mindful of any unusual pain, discoloration, muscle cramping or nausea. A few spiders’ bites can cause serious medical problems, and these need to be attended to by a doctor.
4. Bed Bugs
Our body’s adverse reaction to a bed bug’s saliva causes a red, raised bump to form around the bite. Bed bug bites usually form in clusters, or rows, of more than three and are incredibly itchy. Apply an ice pack to the bites to reduce itching, and take an oral antihistamine to help with overall irritation.
5. Fleas
Flea bites and bed bug bites are quite similar in appearance, with the exception that flea bites sometimes have a red halo around the center and generally occur around the ankles. Avoid scratching, as this can lead to a larger infection, and follow the same treatment as with most other insect bites.
Although there’s no sure way to avoid them, preventative measures like using repellent or chemically treating your home can help to minimize your contact with biting insects. Keep a watchful eye on any bite or sting that does occur, and contact your doctor if it won’t heal.
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