What causes insect bites and stings?
For most people, insect bites or stings cause a mild reaction. Venomous stings usually cause a stinging sensation or pain with redness and swelling of the area. Itch is usually not a concern. In some people who are sensitive to insect venom, a sting may cause a severe allergic reaction known as anaphylaxis. This results in facial swelling, difficultly breathing and an itchy rash (urticaria) over most of the body. This can be life-threatening so immediate medical attention and treatment needs to be sought. Non-venomous insect bites usually cause little more than an intense irritating itch (papular urticaria) for most people. The bite may show up as a small raised red spot. It may blister. Unfortunately the urge to scratch usually results in an open sore that may become infected and take longer to heal. In some parts of the world, insect bites can be more problematic as the insects are carriers or vectors of diseases such as malaria, chikungunya fever, rickettsial disease and dengue feve
For most people, insect bites or stings cause a mild reaction. Venomous stings usually cause a stinging sensation or pain with redness and swelling of the area. Itch is usually not a concern. In some people who are sensitive to insect venom, a sting may cause a severe allergic reaction known as anaphylaxis. This results in facial swelling, difficultly breathing and an itchy rash (urticaria) over most of the body. This can be life-threatening so immediate medical attention and treatment needs to be sought. Non-venomous insect bites usually cause little more than an intense irritating itch (papular urticaria) for most people. The bite may show up as a small raised red spot. It may blister. Unfortunately the urge to scratch usually results in an open sore that may become infected and take longer to heal. In some parts of the world, insect bites can be more problematic as the insects are carriers or vectors of diseases such as malaria, chikungunya fever, rickettsial disease and dengue feve
