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Insect Bites Symptoms
Even though many insects bite or sting us, only a few can cause serious symptoms unless the person who got bitten is allergic to them. However, it is seen that some insects spread diseases. For instance, some types of mosquitoes transmit yellow fever, malaria and other diseases. Similarly, certain types of ticks transmit rocky mountain fever and certain types of biting flies transmit tularemia or rabbit fever.
It is also observed that these biting insects can transmit poison also through their bite if they have been in contact with poisonous substances.
Make sure you have an antidote or possible immunization ready if you have experienced serious reactions from insect bites previously. This will prevent more serious reactions from future insect bites and stings.
The signs and symptoms of insect bites and stings are as follows:
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If the bites are caused by bees, ticks, fleas, mosquitoes or bedbugs usually only local irritation and pain will be present in the area where the insect had bitten.
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Also, some reasonable redness and swelling may be also present along with burning, some itching and pain.
The first aid for insect bites and stings are as follows:
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Inspect the involved area to make sure whether the insect is still left in the body. If so, remove it immediately to prevent further injection of the toxin. Make sure it is cautiously scraped off the skin and not grasped with tweezers as in the latter case more toxins may be squeezed into the body.
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Apply ice to the area so that absorption of toxin into the bloodstream is slowed down. A paste of baking soda and water can also be applied to the bite.
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In case you are allergic to bed bug bites, make sure to follow the steps described below.
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The first thing to remember is not to scratch the wound. Try to control the tendency to scratch because scratching is going to make the itch only worse. Also, if you scratch, there is a possibility of opening the wound which may cause bleeding. People who got bitten have reported that the blood from a scratched wound flow more liberally than usual. This may be due to the remnant of anticoagulants in the welt. Also, scratching a bite until it bleeds can lead to infection.
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Clean the area with warm, soapy water.
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Apply benadryl or hydrocortisone. Even though they won't make the bites disappear, but it will reduce the symptoms.
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Observe for signs for any allergic reaction. For people who are allergic, provide medical help as quickly as possible.
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