Types of insect bites and stings

Different insect bites and stings have different symptoms.

• Flea bites can cause clusters or lines of small red spots or itchy red lumps on the skin. These are usually found around the ankles but can also be on the forearms if the person has been stroking or holding an animal which is carrying fleas
• Midge, mosquito and gnat bites cause small itchy lumps called papules to form on the skin. People who are particularly sensitive to insect bites may develop bullae (fluid-filled blisters) or circular, fluid-filled weals surrounding the bite. Mosquito bites in certain areas of tropical countries can cause malaria
• Bedbug bites aren’t usually painful but can cause itchy, raised red lumps on white skin. They may appear purple on black or brown skin. Often, the bites appear in groups or in a line
• Tick bites aren’t usually painful either, but can cause a red lump and, in some cases, swelling, itching, blisters or bruising. However, ticks can carry a bacterial infection that causes Lyme disease, which can be serious if left untreated. Many people with early symptoms of Lyme disease develop a circular ‘bullseye’ rash around bite, and should see their GP for immediate treatment, as Pharmacy First does not cover this condition
• Bee, wasp and hornet stings cause sharp pain in the sting site, leaving a painful and itchy, swollen red mark. Stings can be removed with fingers or brushed out using something with a hard
  edge like a bank card.
  They should not be removed with tweezers as this can squeeze the venom from the sting
• Mite bites can cause very itchy lumps and blisters on the skin
• Spider bites are rare in the UK, but can leave small puncture marks on the skin which can be red, painful and swollen
• Horsefly bites can be very painful and, alongside leaving a weal, can cause hives, dizziness, weakness, wheezing, and itchy, pale pink or red swellings called angioedema. Horsefly bites can take a long time to heal and become infected.