Identifying and Treating Bug Bites: A Complete Call-On-Doc Guide

Not all bug bites are the same. Different insects cause distinct reactions, and some bites carry a higher risk of infection or disease transmission. Early recognition helps guide proper treatment and determines whether medical care is necessary.

Bug bites may vary based on:

• The type of insect

• Individual immune response

• Location of the bite

• Duration of exposure

• Presence of scratching or skin breakdown

Mosquito Bites

Mosquito bites typically appear as small, raised, itchy red bumps. Swelling may increase over the first 24 hours and gradually improve over several days. Scratching can break the skin and increase the risk of infection.

Bed Bug Bites

Bed bug bites often appear in clusters or straight lines on exposed skin such as the arms, neck, or face. They may be painless at first but become intensely itchy hours to days later. Repeated bites overnight are common.

Flea Bites

Flea bites are small red bumps, frequently grouped around the ankles or lower legs. They are intensely itchy and often linked to pet exposure or household infestations.

Tick Bites

Tick bites are usually painless and may go unnoticed. A small red bump may appear at the bite site. Some tick bites can transmit illnesses such as Lyme disease, so monitoring for rash, fever, or flu-like symptoms is essential.

Bee and Wasp Stings

These stings cause immediate pain, redness, and swelling. In most cases, symptoms improve within a few hours to days. However, some individuals may develop severe allergic reactions requiring urgent care.

Ant Bites

Fire ant bites often cause burning pain followed by raised white pustules. Multiple stings may occur in one area and can lead to infection if scratched.

Spider Bites

Most spider bites cause mild redness and irritation. However, bites from venomous spiders such as black widows or brown recluses can cause severe pain, tissue damage, or systemic symptoms and require medical evaluation.

For most uncomplicated bug bites, home care is effective:

1. Clean the Area

Wash the bite with soap and water to reduce infection risk.

2. Reduce Swelling and Itching

Apply a cold compress or ice pack for 10–15 minutes several times per day.

3. Use Topical Treatments

Over-the-counter options include:

• Hydrocortisone cream

• Calamine lotion

• Antihistamine creams

4. Oral Antihistamines

Oral antihistamines can help reduce itching and allergic reactions.

5. Avoid Scratching

Scratching delays healing and increases the risk of secondary bacterial infection.

Seek medical attention if a bite shows:

• Increasing redness, warmth, or swelling

• Pus or drainage

• Red streaks spreading from the bite

• Fever or chills

• Pain that worsens over time

Some people experience significant allergic responses, including:

• Facial or throat swelling

• Difficulty breathing

• Dizziness or fainting

• Rapid heartbeat

These symptoms may indicate anaphylaxis, a medical emergency requiring immediate care.

Certain insects can transmit serious illnesses, including:

• Ticks → Lyme disease, ehrlichiosis

• Mosquitoes → West Nile virus, dengue, Zika

• Fleas → bacterial infections in rare cases

If you develop fever, rash, joint pain, or flu-like symptoms after a bite—especially following travel or outdoor exposure—medical evaluation is recommended.

You should seek medical care if:

• Symptoms worsen after 48–72 hours

• The bite becomes painful, swollen, or infected

• You suspect a tick-borne illness

• You experience an allergic reaction

• A spider bite causes severe pain or skin changes

Most bug bites can be treated quickly without an in-person visit. Call-On-Doc offers convenient online evaluations for bug bites, skin reactions, and infections. Licensed providers can recommend treatment and prescribe medication when appropriate—often in as little as 15 minutes.

Fast care. Clear guidance. Relief without the wait.