Sunny days often mean the great outdoors... and insect bites. Whether it's a mosquito bite, a tick bite or a painful wasp sting by the pool, it's essential to know how to react quickly and effectively. Here's how to recognize different types of insect bites and their symptoms.
How can I tell which insect has bitten me?
Many insects can sting or bite: mosquitoes, bees, wasps, ticks, fleas, spiders... While some stings are harmless, others can cause severe pain or transmit disease.
Mosquito bites
Mosquito bites are the most common. They cause itching, a small red bump and sometimes a slight swelling. They can cause stronger reactions in some people, especially children. In rare cases, mosquitoes can transmit diseases such as West Nile virus.
Tick bites
Ticks do not sting; they bite and attach themselves to the skin. Some can transmit Lyme disease. Remove the tick carefully, making sure to remove the head. What's more, as soon as the tick is removed, it's important to see a pharmacist to find out if you'll need Lyme disease preventive treatment. If you are unable to extract the entire tick, you should go to hospital.
Flea bites
Fleas are tiny insects that feed on the blood of animals and sometimes humans. Their bites cause intense itching and often appear in clusters or lines, especially on the legs or ankles. They are common where there is an infested pet. Although benign, these bites can become infected if scratched excessively.
Spider bites
Although rare in Quebec, spiders such as black widows and brown recluses, which can be encountered while traveling, can cause serious reactions. A spider bite can cause pain, significant swelling, and sometimes fever or nausea.
Bee and wasp stings
Bees leave their stingers in the skin, and they must be removed quickly. Wasps, on the other hand, can sting several times without losing their stinger. These stings cause pain, redness and localized swelling. They are of particular concern to allergy sufferers.
How long does the swelling last after a wasp sting?
Swelling caused by a wasp sting usually occurs within minutes of the sting, and can last from a few hours to 7 days. This inflammatory reaction is the body's normal response to the toxin injected by the insect. In children or people with sensitive skin, swelling may be more pronounced, sometimes accompanied by pain or persistent redness.
If in doubt, especially if the sting was near the face or in the throat, it's best not to wait. Keep in mind that insect bites, like wasp stings, can cause complications if not treated properly.
What are the symptoms and possible complications?
Most insect bites cause only temporary discomfort, with symptoms that vary in nature and intensity. A victim of a voracious insect may present a variety of symptoms, including the following:
- Itching;
- Swelling;
- Redness;
- Pain;
- Burning sensation;
- Feeling of general malaise.
Fortunately, these usually benign symptoms, limited to the affected area, will disappear on their own within a few hours or days.
How to recognize an allergy to insect bites?
The difference between an allergy and an insect bite becomes apparent within minutes. An allergy can lead to serious complications. Bee and wasp stings are the most dangerous. If you know that an insect sting can cause an allergic reaction, seek emergency medical attention immediately if you are stung.
In addition, always carry auto-injectable epinephrine (EpiPenMD) and administer it immediately after the injection and before going to the emergency room. For more information on what to do in the event of a severe allergic reaction, consult your pharmacist.
How can I avoid an insect bite and infection?
The best way to guard against insect bites is prevention. Some ways to avoid getting bug bites are to stay away from places with lots of bugs, wear clothes that cover as much skin as possible, and use mosquito nets.
Insect repellent, commonly known as "mosquito repellent", can also help protect you from the bites of certain insects, such as mosquitoes and ticks.
For more information on preventing insect bites, see our article on the best practices to follow in the event of an insect bite. You can also find all our tips for stocking your next first aid kit.
How to treat an insect bite?
Despite taking precautions, insect bites are sometimes unavoidable. Here is what to do as soon as you are bitten:
- Apply ice (wrapped in a cloth) to the affected area for 15 minutes;
- Gently wash the skin with soap and water.
- Apply a cold compress as needed in the hours following the bite;
- Avoid scratching so as not to aggravate the irritation.
- For intense itching, a colloidal oatmeal bath can provide relief;
- Over-the-counter medications (antihistamine creams, analgesics) can also help.
Helpful advice: Above all, do not scratch the bite! Some over-the-counter medications can help relieve the symptoms. If the measures described above are not sufficiently effective, talk to your pharmacist.
What to put on a mosquito bite?
To relieve a mosquito bite, start by gently cleansing the skin with warm water and soap. Then apply a cold compress to calm inflammation and reduce itching. This simple step is often enough, but if the discomfort persists, try using a calendula or aloe vera gel.
Good to know: Children tend to scratch more, so it is essential to apply a soothing treatment quickly to prevent secondary infection. Mosquito bites are rarely dangerous, but they can be very uncomfortable.
How can I prevent insect bites?
Prevention is the best defence. This is how to limit bites from mosquitoes, spiders, and other insects:
- Avoid damp or wooded areas in the evening;
- Wear long, light-coloured clothing;
- Use mosquito nets to protect yourself at night;
- Apply a mosquito repellent containing DEET or Icaridine.
Children and pets must also be protected, as they may have greater exposure. Summer is always a good time to prepare for camping or day camp.
When should I go to the emergency room for an insect bite?
Some people have a more severe reaction to insect bites due to allergy. The insects most often responsible for severe allergic reactions are undoubtedly bees and yellowjackets. Anaphylactic shock is a severe reaction that can lead to death. Here are some of the symptoms to watch out for that require calling an ambulance as quickly as possible:
- Urticaria;
- Swelling of the lips and throat;
- Difficulty breathing;
- Nausea and vomiting;
- Hot flush or redness;
- Lower blood pressure;
- Feeling of weakness;
- Fainting.
Insect bites are an integral part of Canadian summers. Knowing how to treat them properly can certainly make the healing process easier. If you are not sure which treatment is best for you or your family, ask your pharmacist for help.
