Even if you live in a different state, chances are that a bug has bitten you. Although these bites can sometimes be dangerous, they are usually harmless and can be treated with the proper steps. According to Jeffrey Hsu, a board-certified dermatologist based in Chicago, a bug bite can occur when an insect breaks its skin. It usually attacks the skin to defend its territory.
There are lots of ways one can get bitten. For instance, if you spend a lot of time outside, you are more likely to get exposed to insects. You might also be at risk of getting frequently bitten if you have animals or pets or if you live in areas with tropical conditions. Erum N. Ilyas, a board-certified dermatologist, based in Philadelphia, says that even if you don’t spend much time outside, bugs still have an opportunity to get to you.
Here are some bites you might encounter on a hike and a few steps that can help prevent infection and relieve the pain.
Mosquito Bites
The CDC states that the most common cause of itch after being bitten by a mosquito is because the insects need blood to produce eggs. Although these bites usually leave a red or black mark, small blisters or bruising-like patches can also appear.
Many people think about getting infected with germs, such as the Zika and West Nile viruses, when it comes to getting bitten by a mosquito. However, these can also be prevented using insect repellents and covering up. Other steps to help avoid getting bitten by a mosquito include emptying standing water from birdbaths and flower pots.
Flea Bites
Both female and male fleas suck blood from humans. After a bite, small red patches usually appear on the skin near the area where the flea’s mouth used to touch the body. Although swelling can be abnormal, it can also occur if one gets scratched.
Besides infecting humans, flea bites can also cause various diseases, such as typhus and cat-scratch disease. Some symptoms that can appear after being bitten by a flea include fever, chills, stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, and body aches. People should use insect repellents to prevent flea bites and cover their skin with clothing.
Tick Bites
Most ticks are tiny and look like specks of dirt on your skin. They live in warm and dark areas of the body, such as your armpits, belly button, and fingers and toes. If you come across a tick, remove it immediately. They can also transmit diseases, such as Lyme disease, which can cause a heart attack and neurological symptoms.
To avoid getting bitten by ticks, people should wear long-sleeved shirts and insect repellents. They can also check their pets and children for ticks.
Treating Bug Bites
Thankfully, most bug bites can be treated at home. According to Elaine Kung, a board-certified dermatologist, treating mosquitos, fleas and ticks can be done at home. She recommends using ice and anti-inflammatory drugs, such as Motrin and Advil. If the bite is tender and swollen, these drugs can help alleviate the pain.
The CDC also recommends using sharp tools to remove a tick. Doing so will prevent breaking the animal and leaving its head. Drinking plenty of fluids to flush out toxins is also a good idea.