Most of the time, we know exactly when a bug takes a bite out of us, but it can be a little disconcerting if some insect manages to sneak a bite when you’re not looking. Especially if it happens when you’re asleep!
If you have mystery bites, stings, or itchy lumps, here are some easy ways to figure out what kind of bug was the culprit, and what you can do to relieve your symptoms.
Bug Bites by Look & Feel
The most common bug bites are pretty similar: little red bumps that itch, swell, or might even hurt. But some of the more subtle differences, like bite location or level of pain, can give a good indication of what in fact bit you.
Ant bites, especially fire ant bites, can be very painful, especially when they come in large numbers. Ants usually don’t make it beyond the ankle or lower leg before they start biting, and they may bite multiple times before you swipe them away. The bites might be inflamed, swollen, and painful, but severe pain and swelling could be a sign of an allergy.
Bed bug bites are more likely to feel painful than itchy, and they may have a clear center to the itchy bump. Plus, if the bed bugs have been biting all night, you may notice bites in a line or zigzag pattern. If you think you may have bed bugs, carefully check your bed and other upholstered furniture for red, rust-colored spots.
Bee stings aren’t technically bites, but they, too, can cause painful red bumps on your skin. Check to see if there’s any swelling or lightened skin tone around the bump. If so, it could be from a bee sting. Bee allergies are common, so be sure to watch for an allergic reaction, which typically includes the stung body part swelling up like a balloon. If you suspect an allergic reaction is happening, be sure to consult a medical professional immediately.
Flea bites are very itchy, but smaller than typical mosquito bites. Luckily, fleas can’t fly, so the majority of the bites will likely be around your ankles and legs, unless you’ve spent a lot of time cuddled up with a certain furry friend!
Mosquito bites are itchy, red, and incredibly annoying. Unfortunately, if you have one, you’ll likely have multiple mosquito bites on your arms, legs, neck, or any exposed skin. They can even bite through thin layers of clothing!
Spider bites vary depending on the spider itself. Most spiders will leave red marks, some swelling, and a little bit of pain or discomfort. But if the bite looks especially severe or is causing considerable pain, it’s best to seek emergency medical care ASAP.
Tick bites can leave a unique rash on the skin that looks a lot like a bullseye. If you begin experiencing symptoms of Lyme disease, be sure to visit your doctor and let them know if you’ve been out and about in nature.
The vast majority of common bug bites are nothing more than a nuisance, but some bug bites and stings can cause intense pain and allergic reactions. If it feels like more than a common fire ant or mosquito bite, it may require professional medical care.
Treating Bug Bites & Stings
The absolute best treatment for any bites or stings is, of course, to not get them in the first place. The CDC recommends using insect repellent, staying up to date on any shots when traveling, and wearing protective clothing to cover exposed skin.
Of course, we’ve all had evenings doused in bug spray, covered from head to toe, and mosquitoes still manage to bite! The truth is that, even if we do everything we can to prevent bug bites, they’re still going to happen.
If your kid steps on an ant hill or you’ve been swarmed by mosquitoes, you’re going to want a way to stop bites itching in seconds. Luckily, Bite Away has the bug bite relief you’re looking for. In just a few seconds, you can stop the itching, reduce the swelling, and get rid of those pesky red bumps.
And the best news is that, even if you can’t identify the bite, Bite Away still works! Whether it’s an insect bite or a bee sting, our heat technology provides chemical-free treatment. So before you inevitably get your next bug bite, make sure you’re ready!
