The Bug Bites of Summer: 5 Insects You Should Never Ignore by Joyce Knestrick, CRNP, FAANP

Family Health
5 years ago

The Bug Bites of Summer: 5 Insects You Should Never Ignore

Summer is the season to head outdoors, but the fresh air brings mysterious bites and stings that can be itchy, painful and, sometimes, dangerous. Here’s a list of things you can’t ignore:

  • Bed bugs: These aren’t dangerous, but infestation will only get worse (and make you miserable) until you take care of it.
  • Bee stings: Most people aren’t allergic, but if you experience face or throat swelling, lightheadedness, difficulty breathing or hives, call 911.
  • Spider bites: Most aren’t venomous, but some can cause severe pain, swelling, cramping or body chills, so get help if it’s feels like more than a typical bug bite.
  • Ticks: Signs of an infectious bite include a bullseye rash, muscle soreness, fatigue and irritability. Seek treatment as soon as you suspect something.
  • Mosquitoes: Mostly annoying, these can sometimes cause hives, swollen glands and a fever, and in rare cases, anaphylaxis (like a bee sting), so seek help if you have an unexpected reaction.

Bites are part of summer, but some can’t be ignored. A nurse practitioner can help figure out what’s going on. When in doubt, call 911 if you suspect an emergency!

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Elisa Schmitz
My least favorite part about summer. Many thanks for the great info, Joyce Knestrick, CRNP, FAANP !

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