They are all around you. Sooner or later, they’ll strike. We are talking about insects.
There are so many insects in the world. Scientists estimate that there may be 10 quintillion insects total today, as opposed to the seven billion humans. Unfortunately, many of these insects can bite people, leaving injuries, diseases, or even causing death.
Fortunately, we’re here to share with you a comprehensive guide to common insect bites. Throughout this article, we’ll talk about their bites, the various accompanying symptoms, and how to treat them. Our guide will cover insects that are very common to ones that are serious.
Let’s start.
Spiders
First up, we have spiders. Currently, there are over 40,000 species of arachnids in the world. While only a handful is considered truly dangerous, depending on where one is in the world, the number and species of spiders are still a great cause for concern.
When discussing how deadly spiders are, a compilation of several reports shows that ever since antivenoms were created and the right procedures were established, deaths fell to single digits.
With that said though, the bites from various spiders can cause injuries and effects. If not treated, it could be fatal.
The Bite
In most cases, bites from spiders are generally the same. They usually look and feel like normal bites from insects. These are bumps on the skin that will turn red and are itchy.
These change though when faced with venomous spiders.
For instance, a bite from the black widow feels like a simple ant bite. It begins as a red mark. Upon closer inspection though, one can see two small puncture marks, like a vampire.
Pretty soon, the red mark will swell and flare up.
As another example, the brown recluse spider differs as well. The area of their bite will be surrounded by a red ring.
These are just some examples of the bites of spiders.
Symptoms
General
First, we start off with the general symptoms of common spider bites. This is because the symptoms may vary largely depending on the spider.
As previously mentioned, common spiders will usually leave reddish bumps on the skin, much like other insect bites. Pretty soon, the area will begin to swell, itch, and become painful.
These marks should go away on their own as the day goes on.
While they don’t seem so bad, these are only useful if a person sees the spider that bit them. Without knowing the species, these symptoms can grow into more problematic ones.
Furthermore, there is always a chance that a person is allergic to venom. This leads to anaphylaxis which can be fatal.
Red Back Spider
Next up, we have the redback spider, a very dangerous species.
Let us preface this by saying that many factors come into play when talking about spider symptoms. However, we can go on with similar symptoms.
With this spider, it starts off with the general symptoms. Pretty soon though, the pain grows and will eventually flood the entire limb.
Soon after, the person will start to sweat profusely. It will soon be accompanied by headaches, nausea, and vomiting.
Funnel Web Spider
Another dangerous spider is the funnel web. This spider’s bite introduces more frightening symptoms.
After a bite, a person will start to feel dizzy and drool. This will quickly be accompanied by a tingling sensation around the lips area.
Muscle spasms will soon hit the body, along with nausea and dizzy spells. The venom then travels to the nervous system, at which time the victim may start shivering and feeling confused.
Finally, the heart rate will escalate rapidly, eventually ending in shock.
These are only a few symptoms of some dangerous spiders. Each insect bite from different arachnid species may vary.
Treatment
The first step to treating any spider bite is to identify which species bit you. Apart from the fact that symptoms vary between species, the antivenom used is also different. That is why it pays to know what the common and dangerous spiders around you look like.
After that, it is just a matter of going to the hospital.
If you didn’t see the spider, make sure to remember the timeline of the symptoms you have felt.
Remember that in some cases, spider bites are just like a normal insect bite. However, spider bites become emergencies if a person is allergic, if you know that the spider is very venomous, or if you aren’t sure what spider bit you.
Prevention
Knowledge is your first line of defence when trying to prevent spiders from biting you. A study on the spiders near you, their habitats and habits, as well as whether they are venomous or not can greatly help with this.
After that, it is all a matter of spider-proofing your home.
Spiders thrive in clutter. It allows them the space and privacy to slink in every direction without you noticing. That is why a home must be kept tidy.
Apart from that, it may be a good idea to wear pants and a long-sleeved shirt if walking through the forest or other areas where spiders may be present.
Ants
Out of all the insects in the world, ants hold the distinction of being the most numerous. With more than 20,000 species only discovered (with more unknown), the total mass of all the ants in the world outnumbers the collective mass of all mammals, birds, and reptiles. It outweighs all these four times over.
They really are everywhere, especially where the food is.
The Bite
Bites from ants are usually not severe, and they typically only result in mild itching or irritation. However, some people may be allergic to ant venom, and their bites can cause more serious reactions.
The pain though is variable depending on the species of ant. For instance, the bullet ant earned its name due to the severity of the pain received. People liken it to a bullet.
Symptoms
The symptoms of an ant bite depend on the type of ant and the person’s individual reaction to the venom. Some people experience only minor itching or irritation, while others may have a more severe reaction, including:
- Swelling
- Redness
- Pain
- Itching
- Blisters
These symptoms usually last for a few hours to a few days and resolve on their own. In some cases, the symptoms may last for weeks.
Treatment
Most ant bites can be treated at home and do not require medical attention. The following treatments may help relieve symptoms:
- Washing the area with soap and water
- Applying a cold compress to the area
- Taking an antihistamine to reduce itching
- Using over-the-counter (OTC) topical corticosteroids to reduce swelling
In some cases, a person may need prescription-strength topical or oral corticosteroids or antibiotics. People who are allergic to insect venom may also need emergency treatment. This may include injectable epinephrine and antihistamines. People who have had anaphylactic reactions to insect bites in the past should always carry injectable epinephrine with them.
Prevention
For ants, good housekeeping is always the way to go. Be sure not to leave any food left out in the open. At the same time, make sure that if you eat any chips or cookies, you don’t leave any crumbs around.
When heading out, watch out for any ant mounds and stay away from them. It may also be of interest to wear as much protective clothing as possible.
Finally, insect repellant does wonder for ants. Be sure to keep some on hand if ants become a problem.
Bedbugs
Bedbugs are parasitic insects that feed on the blood of humans and animals. These pests are reddish-brown in colour, wingless, and oval-shaped. Adults grow to be about 4 to 5 mm long, while nymphs (bed bug babies) are much smaller. Bed Bugs can live for several months without a meal and are experts at hiding.
While bedbugs don’t transmit diseases, their bites can be extremely itchy and uncomfortable. Some people may also have allergic reactions to bedbug bites, which can range from mild to serious.
The Bite
Bed Bugs feed on the blood of humans and animals by piercing the skin with their long beaks. This process is called “feeding” or “taking a meal.” Bed Bugs usually bite people while they are sleeping because that is when they are most vulnerable.
Bedbug bites often appear in a line or cluster and are frequently found on exposed areas of skin like the face, neck, arms, and legs. The bites can also be found on the upper body, such as the chest or back.
Symptoms
The symptoms of bedbug bites vary from person to person. Some people may not have any reaction at all while others may experience itching, redness, and swelling. This type of insect bite usually appears as a small, red, swollen area that is extremely itchy. In some cases, the bite may also cause a blister.
Bedbug bites usually go away on their own after a few days but can last for weeks in some cases.
Treatment
Most bedbug bites will resolve on their own within a few days without treatment. However, there are a few things you can do to ease the itchiness and discomfort.
As always, soap and water always do wonders for insect bites. They help to limit the itching, as well as prevent any infections from setting in.
If the itchiness becomes unbearable, a corticosteroid cream can be applied. Weaker types of this cream can be bought over the counter.
For home remedies, people can apply a cold compress and even a mixture of baking soda and water to the affected area.
Prevention
First and foremost, be sure to inspect your sleeping area for any bed bugs. These pests are experts at hiding but can usually be found in the cracks and crevices of mattresses and headboards.
If you suspect that you have bed bugs, be sure to wash all of your bedding in hot water and dry it on high heat. Also, encase your mattress and box spring in a protective cover.
When travelling, be sure to inspect your hotel room for any bed bugs before unpacking your belongings. It’s also a good idea to keep luggage off of the floor and away from the bed.
Finally, be sure to vacuum regularly and declutter your home to remove any hiding spots for bedbugs.
Mosquitoes
Mosquitoes are small, flying insects that are known for their ability to transmit diseases. These pests are found all over the world and can carry diseases like the Zika virus, malaria, and West Nile virus.
Mosquitoes are attracted to warm weather and standing water. They lay their eggs in water, which is why they are often found near ponds, lakes, and marshes.
These insects feed on the blood of humans and animals by piercing the skin.
The Bite
Mosquito bites usually appear as small, red, swollen areas that are extremely itchy. In some cases, the bite may also cause a blister.
These bumps usually puff up after a while. These bumps could then multiply, turn reddish brown, and become hard to the touch.
Symptoms
The symptoms of mosquito bites vary from person to person. Some people may not have any reaction at all while others may experience the common triumvirate of insect bites: itching, redness, and swelling.
In some cases though, mosquitoes are very dangerous. They can transmit diseases like Zika virus, malaria, dengue, and West Nile virus. Symptoms usually evolve into fevers and many other symptoms. These diseases can be serious and even deadly in some cases.
Treatment
Most mosquito bites will resolve on their own within a few days without treatment. However, there are a few things you can do to ease the itchiness and discomfort. If you guessed soap and water, then you hit the nail right on the head.
For serious diseases like dengue, hospital treatment is a necessity.
Prevention
The best way to prevent a mosquito insect bite is by safeguarding one’s home.
First and foremost, be sure to avoid standing water. This is where mosquitoes lay their eggs. If you have any standing water on your property, be sure to drain it.
You can also use insect repellent when you’re outside. Repellents that contain DEET are the most effective.
When travelling to areas with high rates of mosquito-borne diseases, be sure to take extra precautions. Wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants. Use insect repellent and sleep under a mosquito net if possible.
Conclusion
We hope that the information we’ve provided on these common yet dangerous insect bites will help you considerably.
Remember that insects outnumber humans in this world. This means that the chances of you being at risk of any insect bite are quite large. Thus, it benefits everyone greatly to understand the bites of these insects, their symptoms, treatment, and prevention measures.
Another important thing to remember is that these small critters can sometimes have potentially fatal effects. Always be ready for these situations by learning the right first aid practices.
Learn more about them through CPR First Aid’s Liverpool course.
