Summer often brings bug bites, most of which are not serious. The most common bites or stings come from bees, wasps, and mosquitoes, while less common ones include fleas, spiders, and ticks. Understanding bug bite identification and treatment can help you manage symptoms like itching, swelling, or redness. While staying indoors is the only way to completely avoid bites, there are simple steps you can take to reduce your risk while enjoying the outdoors.
How to Prevent Bug Bites
There are no guarantees you can avoid a bug bite. However, these tips can help:
- Avoid areas where you know there are bugs, such as still pools or ponds and woody areas with high grass.
- Apply bug spray before going outdoors.
- Dress appropriately (long sleeves and long pants). Wear shoes and socks when walking on grass and gloves when gardening.
- Prepare for allergic reactions. Keep antihistamines, such as diphenhydramine (brand name: Benadryl), or epinephrine on hand. You can buy many antihistamines over the counter, but epinephrine is a prescription medicine. You’ll have it only if you have a history of anaphylaxis (a severe, life-threatening allergic reaction).
- Cover food to reduce attraction of flies and ants.
- Keep your yard trimmed and treat for bugs. Be careful not to treat when children are outside playing in the treated area.
How to Treat Bug Bites at Home
If you have been bitten by a bug, follow these steps to relieve the discomfort:
- For bee stings, remove the stinger, if possible.
- Wash the area with soap and water.
- Take acetaminophen (one brand: Tylenol) or ibuprofen (one brand: Advil) for pain and inflammation.
- Take diphenhydramine (brand name: Benadryl) for the itching and swelling.
- Apply a cold compress to the bite.
- Apply an anti-itch cream to the bite.
- Watch for changes in the bite, such as a rash or swelling.
- See your doctor if the bite worsens.
When to See a Doctor for a Bug Bite
While most bug bites are harmless, there is some danger associated with the bites.
Signs of Infection or Allergic Reaction
Beware of signs of a serious allergic reaction. Symptoms may include tightness in your chest; swelling in your throat; wheezing or trouble breathing; swelling of your lips, face, or tongue; dizziness; and nausea or vomiting.
Bug Bites That Need Medical Attention
Certain spider bites contain venom. This includes bites from the Brown recluse and Scorpions (part of the spider family). In some cases, the venom can be deadly.
Certain types of tick bites can result in long-term illness, such as Lyme disease. Learn how to remove a tick properly to avoid trapping it under your skin.
Before you travel outside the U.S., research the types of insects that are common to the region you are visiting. Some insects are more common during certain times of the year.
Questions to ask your doctor
- Do bug bites leave scars?
- How do I know if my bug bite is severe enough to go to the emergency room?
- What should I do to protect myself if I am traveling outside the U.S.?
- How can I tell if I’m having an allergic reaction to a bug bite?
