Insect Bites: Symptoms, Treatment, and Prevention Tips

• Flea bites – small-diameter, red papules (protruding elements of the rash) are observed on the body skin, with a characteristic arrangement: in groups or lines. The rash is usually localized in the ankles, waist, armpits, and body folds. Bites are itchy, sometimes even painful.

• Bedbug bites – red nodules or papules with a dark center are observed on the skin of the body, which are characterized by severe itching and stinging. Characteristic arrangement of rash elements: linear, in groups, “zigzag” shape. Rashes can be anywhere on the body, but are usually localized in the upper part of the body: face, neck, hands, back. The rash lasts about 10 days.

• Mosquitoes – redness, swelling, painful, itchy rash at the bite site. Single elements of the rash are observed, grouping is not characteristic, it is usually observed in open – areas not covered by clothes.

• Swift bites are very similar to those of a mosquito, only much larger swelling is observed.

• Rashes are characterized by very strong itching, the skin is swollen and red.

Treatment depends on the body’s reaction to the bite. A normal reaction to a bite is soreness, local swelling, redness of the skin. Such bites are not dangerous and heal on their own within 1-2 weeks. The bite site should be washed with clean water, disinfected, antihistamines or local glucocorticosteroids (hormones) may be prescribed in case of severe itching. It is important to avoid scratching in order to avoid damage to the skin barrier and secondary skin infection. In case of allergy, insect bites can be life-threatening. Dangerous signs of allergy: difficulty breathing, swelling of the respiratory tract, widespread itchy rash, anxiety, increased heart rate, low blood pressure, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, joint pain. If one of these symptoms appears, urgent medical help is necessary due to a life-threatening condition – anaphylactic shock.

To protect against insect bites in nature, it is advised to wear suitable clothing that covers as much of the body as possible, and use repellents. When fleas are introduced in the living environment, it is advised to check the fur of your pets, because they can be the source of the pests. It is important to vacuum the carpets and wash the bedding in hot water. One of the most reliable methods of exterminating fleas is to spray the house with a special means against fleas, if there is no effect, use special house cleaning services. A similar sequence of actions is carried out when killing bed bugs.

When in doubt about the origin and causative agent of the rash, a consultation with a dermatovenerologist is recommended.