Insect Bite Identification

If you have itchy red skin with a spotty appearance, you may assume you have had an insect bite. That can be alarming. First, insects can carry diseases, so insect bites can be a health hazard. Equally important, if you are waking up with insect bites, but do not remember getting bit, it can indicate that you have a bug infestation. Figuring out what type of insect has been biting you can help you determine what your risk of disease is and the best way to approach insect eradication! So, read on to figure out how to tell what is bugging you!

Spiders

Spider bites can range from extremely mild to extremely serious. It all depends on what species bites you. The bites may look different, as well. Usually, they look like red welts. They may get larger over time. It is important to look at symptoms. If you notice any unusual symptoms from a bug bite, you should get attention. Spider bites can be deadly. So, consult with a doctor if you experience

• Pain
• Fever
• Chills
• Breathing difficulties
• Sweating
• Muscle pain
• Headaches
• Cramping
• Nausea
• Vomiting

Bed Bugs

Bed bug bites may be some of the most alarming insect bites out there. While bed bugs do not really carry disease, they can be a real nuisance. They look like small red dots. They cause itching, and if you scratch at them, you can create blisters. However, for most people washing with soap and water and applying anti-itch creams should treat the bites. Some people also have allergic reactions to bed bug bites, which can create serious problems, including anaphylaxis. However, for most people the real problem with bedbugs is how they spread from place to place. They can easily move to other soft surfaces, so bedbugs in one room can spread throughout your house. You can also transport them on clothing to other locations.

Flea Bites

In terms of health hazard, flea bites may be a little more serious than bed bugs. The bites look similar. They are small red dots, but usually bigger than bed bugs. You usually find flea bites on the lower legs, because they live in carpets or on pets. Fleas are opportunistic predators, but humans are not the preferred food source. If you are getting bitten by fleas, you probably have a serious flea problem and your pets could be in danger. Fleas can carry disease, cause tapeworms, and lead to anemia in your pets. To treat a flea bite, wash the area and use cream. To treat fleas on pets, use flea and tick preventatives and treat your yard and home.

Mosquito Bites

Mosquito bites cause itching in most people. They are usually puffy bumps that itch. Some people may get hives and swelling. Topical creams can help treat the itch. The bigger risk is that mosquito bites can carry disease. Mosquitos have caused more deaths than any other animals, and mosquito-transmitted diseases still cause more than 1 million deaths each year!

Bees and Wasps

Most people know what a bee sting looks like. However, it can be difficult to know whether you were stung by a bee or a was. Generally, it does not matter, as the results are similar. You usually feel pain at the time of the sting and may experience pain and swelling afterwards, as well. However, if you have an allergy, a sting could be deadly. It is a good idea to use antihistamines after a sting, just in case.