How to Identify Insect Bites and What to Do About Them

On sunny days, warm weather often lures us outside—but it also brings out unwanted guests: insects that sting, bite, or prick. A relaxed picnic or a nice evening stroll can quickly turn uncomfortable with itching, pain, and nuisance from these tiny troublemakers.

For many people, bites are just a bother, but for others, the effects can be much more serious. Not every insect is harmless: some stings or bites can cause strong allergic reactions, infections, or even transmit diseases like Lyme disease.

Here’s how you can identify insect bites and the right way to act:

How Your Body Responds to Insect Bites

People’s bodies respond differently to insect bites. While one person may only notice mild swelling, another might experience breathing difficulties, dizziness, or fever. If you notice symptoms like blue lips or shortness of breath, get medical help immediately—this could be a dangerous allergic reaction.

Hornet Stings: Very Painful

A hornet sting is intensely painful, often followed by a red, swollen, and warm area. Sometimes blisters can form. Blue lips or shortness of breath are a sign for emergency medical attention.

Honeybee Stings: Remove the Stinger!

Honeybees leave their stinger in your skin, so the venom keeps working. Remove the stinger quickly. The site will swell, turn red, and itch. Apply a cold compress and use an antihistamine for relief.

Wasp Stings: Multiple Stings Are Possible

Wasps can sting several times without losing their stinger, which makes them especially dangerous for people with allergies. Their stings cause sharp pain, swelling, and redness. Don’t scratch. Cool the spot immediately with ice.

Mosquito Bites: Itching

Mosquitoes usually aren’t noticed until you start itching. A small, red bump forms that can itch a lot. Menthol gel or calendula cream often helps.

Tick Bites: Beware of Disease

Ticks carry disease, especially in grass or forests. They attach to the skin and can transmit the bacteria that causes Lyme disease. Check yourself after being outdoors. Remove ticks quickly with tweezers or a tick tool. Note the date and watch for a red ring around the bite—an early warning of Lyme.

Flea Bites: Itchy Clusters

If you have pets, fleas may bite you, often leaving grouped red bumps on your legs. They are easy to spot. Clean clothes and bedding well to avoid another infestation.

Red Ant Bites: Burning and Itch

Red ants inject venom, causing burning and itching. Usually mild, but if you’re sensitive, swelling can be severe. Cool the spot and keep it clean so the reaction doesn’t get worse.

Horsefly Bites: Rugged and Painful

Horsefly bites feel like small cuts and often leave a visible wound. Due to their rough bite, the wounds can become inflamed. Disinfect well and watch for infection.

Lice: Persistent Scalp Itching

Lice cause itching on your head, neck, and behind the ears. They spread quickly from person to person. Use a fine-toothed comb and wash fabric at high temperature to get rid of them.

Bed Bug Bites: Nighttime Attack

Bed bugs bite at night, leaving itchy welts in rows or patterns. These insects hide in cracks and crevices, and professional help is often needed. Look for black dots or blood stains on your sheets.

Protecting Yourself and Others

Knowing which insect bit you, and how to treat it, helps keep you calm and prevents complications. Especially for outdoor lovers, carrying a small first aid kit is a smart move.

Bugs are part of outdoor life, especially in summer. Learning about them and knowing what to do after a sting or bite helps keep things pleasant.

Share this article on Facebook and let us know how you deal with insect bites. Together, we can help protect each other from pesky surprises.

Source: https://faqts.net/zo-herken-je-welke-beet-van-welk-insect-is-en-wat-je-eraan-kunt-doen/