Insect Bite Appearance
Insect bites are something that we all have to deal with at some time or another. It is often difficult to determine what type of insect has bitten you, simply because you may not actually see the insect bite you. The only way you can determine what type of insect bite you have been afflicted with is by evaluating the appearance of the insect bite.
An insect bite appearance may catch you by surprise because you may not have noticed the bite (or sting). Most bites are inconsequential, but not always. Some bites will lead to illness, others to allergic reactions, while others are just uncomfortable. An allergic reaction and infection are the two biggest concerns about insect bites, so be pay attention and take care of any bites you get.
If you can figure out what bit you, then you can treat the bite correctly thereby decreasing the severity of the symptoms and the irritation. The most common thing that all insect bite appearance have in common is swelling and redness, but each type of insect bite has other characteristics that differ it from other insect bites.
Mosquito bite.
A mosquito bite shows up as a red, raised mound with a small hole in the center of the mound. If you are allergic to mosquito bites the bite spot will itch too. It can be easily treated with a simple wash of soap and water and an application of calamine lotion or other anti-itch lotion.Flea bites.
Flea bites are characterized by a cluster of small red bumps that itch. By applying ice to the bites for ten minutes at a time, you can decrease the itching. After you apply the ice for ten minutes, take it off for ten minutes, and apply it for ten more minutes, you can apply an anti-itch lotion or calamine lotion.Spider bites.
Though a spider isn't an insect, its bite can have consequences. The characteristics vary, depending upon the type of spider. A brown recluse, or fiddle back, spider bite will be characterized by a red, blister-like appearance and will sting at the time of the bite and get much worse before it gets better. A black widow spider bite is characterized by redness and a mark that is faint and red at the point of the bite. Other spider bites may resemble a bulls-eye and appear swollen. To treat these bites, clean them with soap and water and apply ice to reduce the swelling. If it resembles a black widow or brown recluse spider bite, medical attention will be needed as soon as possible.Bee stings.
Bee stings are characterized by swelling and soreness or tenderness. In some cases, the stinger will still be in the skin and will need to be removed. After you remove the stinger, apply ice and treat the symptoms. If you are having trouble breathing or are having other symptoms of shock or an allergic reaction, get medical help immediately so you don't go into anaphylactic shock.Wasp stings.
A wasp sting will be white right after the bite and then turn red and swollen, and often hurt for awhile afterward. To treat it, clean with soap and water and apply ice for ten minutes on, ten minutes off until the pain and swelling is relieved. Some people experience relief from the swelling and pain with baking soda paste.
Chiggers, red spider mites and fleas are examples of the other types of insects that can bite you, the appearance of a red spot being your first indication you've been bitten. The information here applies as much to these bites as to others.
The main worry with any insect bite is an allergic reaction, though infection can be a potential problem too. If you are having trouble breathing, your face is swelling, you notice hives, or another unusual reaction, you need to get medical help quickly. The insect bite appearance will help give the healthcare provider the information that they need to treat you correctly.
