Bug Bite Identification

The heat of the Arizona summer provides the perfect breeding ground for insects, particularly those of the biting and stinging variety. Some bites, like those from mosquitoes or ants, are just a nuisance and take time to get over. Others, like bed bug bites, indicate a potential infestation that might require the services of a pest control specialist.

There are also other bites that are quite serious and could require medical attention, like those from a black widow spider. Understanding what different bites look like and being able to identify where they came from will help you know what steps you need to take to remedy the situation.

Black Widow Spider Bite Identification

This photo shows the first part of a Black Widow spider bite. Black Widow females like to hang out near tree stumps or wood piles. They are fairly easy to identify, as they have a reddish mark that looks like an hourglass on their belly. A bite from a black widow might cause pain on the affected limb but not always.

With a Black Widow bite, you should be able to see one or two distinct fang marks near the bite area. In addition, the area around the bite will be red and tender. Symptoms include muscle cramps, vomiting and nausea. If you identify or suspect a Black Widow bite, seek a doctor’s care, as you might require anti-venom medication.

Mosquitoes Bite Identification

Mosquitoes are the deadliest animals in the world. They are responsible for more than one million deaths every year, although they are seen as more of a nuisance than anything else in the United States. Mosquito bites are fairly easy to identify; they itch like crazy and the affected area is red with a slightly raised bump. To avoid getting bitten, cover up as much as possible, use insect repellant containing deet, and try to eliminate any standing water from around your home.

Bed Bug Bite Identification

Most people are not aware that a bed bug has bitten them until after the fact. The bite itself does not hurt, but after an allergic reaction takes place (24 hours or more after the initial bite), the affected area itches and becomes red and raised. The bites are most often found on parts of the body not covered by clothing, like the arms, face, neck and hands. In addition, the bed bug bites are normally present in rows with two bites or more.

Fire Ant Bite Identification

One fire ant typically stings several times, so affected individuals often wind up with multiple welts on their body. The stings hurt and may also blister. Some victims have an allergic reaction to fire ant bites, so it is important to speak to a doctor if you have trouble breathing, feel nauseous or swell more than normal.

Do You Need to See a Doctor for a Bug Bite?

As a blanket statement, most of the time bug bites aren’t serious. But if you notice things like signs of infection, it may be time to seek out a doctor or dermatologist. Sometimes the bite will become infected due to your reaction. If you have a mosquito bite, for instance, try your hardest not to scratch at it. Scratching will break the skin allowing infection to set in. If you notice infection, wash it carefully and use an antiseptic to clean the area.

It’s also important to notice allergic reactions. After all, we don’t know we are allergic until we receive that first bite or sting. The signs of allergic reaction can range from simple swelling all the way to anaphylactic shock. Typically allergies to bees are the worst. If you are stung by a bee or wasp, and notice signs of swelling of lips, eyelids or throat, you may have an allergy and need a trip to the emergency room.

For more information on allergic reactions to bee stings please click here

Arizona Bug Bites

Bug bites are unfortunately very common in the Arizona summer. Some bites are simply a nuisance and are not really anything to worry about. Others can be a much more serious problem, which is why it is important to be aware of the different types of bug bites and know how to identify them. Do not let those bugs get the best of you! Take control of the situation to avoid any issues.