Insect Bites - Face Off With The Insect Menace

A common phenomenon, an insect or a bug bite usually is a mildly painful occurrence that may take place in the confines of your home or in the open gardens, parks or even the most reclusive of places for a bug . Usually the most common insect bites are those of mosquitoes, bed bugs, bees, hornets and the more painful fire ant. Bites from chiggers, lice, fleas and mites are also a common source of annoyance.

The Peak Occurrence Time And Initial Symptoms

Peaking during the summer months or in the wetter conditions when insect population thrives, these bug bites are often accompanied by:

• Mild itching to severe irritation that may be localized and eventually spread
• Redness and discoloration of the skin
• Inflammation and in some cases rupturing of the skin surface
• Accompanying fever or other allergic reactions

The Signs To Watch Out For

With an estimated 6 million varieties of bugs that co- inhabit this planet meeting your nemesis sometime or else with these six legged arthropods is inevitable. The bite or sting usually leaves red bumps on the skin with a small hole in the center from which the sting sticks out. In cases of wasps and bees the allergic reaction to the sting is far more aggravated and in some cases even life threatening. There is no telling what the reaction to a bite or sting may be as it solely depends on the individual’s tolerance of the venom that has been injected into the system.

Advanced Symptoms in Hyper- Allergic Reaction

While most suffer mild repercussions there are cases of hives, swelling in joints and the face, or even fall in blood pressure. The situation worsens when there is nausea, cramps and dizziness, accompanied by disorientation and swelling in the lips and throat causing difficulty in breathing and palpitation. All of these are in the category of severe reaction called-’ Anaphylaxis’. It is imperative that severe cases be reported immediately to a medical practitioner for emergency treatment. It is critically imporatnt to understand that stings of insect of the Hymenoptera family like bees, wasps, hornets and also the fire ant be treated with serious and immediate medical attention.

Natural Salve For Insect Bites

The injection of formic acid is the main cause behind the allergic reaction to the foreign agent in our system. Natural care to reduce the reaction, as well as insect repellents that prevent it, are some of the best ways to combat the impending situation common to summers and rains . While most insect bite cases are resolved using an anti-histamine there are numerous home made salves that provide relief from the swelling and itching. From banana peel to an ice pack, a mud paste or aspirin paste to essential oils such as lavender, the topical application of these have proven effect on insect bite allergies. Having a great summer is also in knowing that a quick- fix formula is well within your reach in what is an inevitable part of the season.

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