Summertime has arrived, and it has once again brought us opportunities to venture outside and enjoy nature. However, when we step outside the doors of our homes, we enter the homes of bugs and insects. While these creatures often go unnoticed, we sometimes cross paths, which can lead to insect and bug bites.
Common insect and bug bites
We have all experienced the uncomfortable sensation of a mosquito bite, but what happens when the itch becomes something more?
Often, it can be difficult to immediately identify what kind of insect and bug bites you have. Depending on where you live, some bugs are more common than others, and any number of insects can bite you, leading to a range of symptoms.
What to do when a bug bites or stings you
Because insect and bug bites are common, it’s important to consider the signs and symptoms of severe bug bites so you can seek medical attention if needed.
Benjamin Brocker, DO, a family medicine physician at Mercy Health – Eisenhower Primary Care in our Youngstown market, shares three action steps to take after getting a bug bite or sting.
Evaluate your immediate symptoms
“If you start to develop symptoms of fever, chills, nausea, vomiting, lightheadedness or dizziness, these could be symptoms of the bite causing cellulitis,” Dr. Brocker says. “This is dangerous because it can, in turn, cause you to become septic.”
These symptoms may appear immediately or gradually over time. Once you become aware of these symptoms, it is important to receive further medical attention so you can recover quickly and safely.
Look for a rash
An itching sensation is common with many different bug bites. While a little itch is not immediately a cause for concern, it is important to monitor the area for a rash.
Some insects – such as ticks, mosquitos, spiders and fire ants – can cause red marks that develop into a rash. Flea bites, bed bug bites and yellow jacket stings can also cause raised, itchy skin around the area.
However, an itchy, red rash resulting from a bug bite or sting might be a symptom of a more serious issue. If a rash develops, it is important to see a medical professional for treatment.
“If a patient starts developing a rash around the bug bite or on their whole body, this could indicate a tick bite. They would then need antibiotics for treatment,” Dr. Brocker shares.
Monitor the bite or sting
Often, when you are bitten or stung by a bug, you might feel a sharp pain and swelling initially before it slowly subsides. However, that’s not always the case.
Dr. Brocker says, “If your bug bite is not improving or worsening, meaning the redness of the site is not improving or worsening, or if the tenderness of the area is not improving or worsening, then you should consult with a medical professional.”
How we can help
Again, while most bug bites are no cause for concern, it is important to use these three action steps to avoid any serious issues that could derail your summer plans.
Many insect or bug bites or stings won’t require medical care and can be treated at home. If it does, a trip to your primary care provider or urgent care can often treat your symptoms. However, some bites and stings – such as black widow and brown recluse spider bites or allergic reactions to a bee sting – require immediate attention. Call 911 or go to your nearest emergency room to get treated right away.
Learn about the primary care services we offer at Mercy Health.
