Can Bed Bugs Make You Sick
While bed bug bites affect everyone differently, some people may have a negative reaction. Learn how to spot signs of allergic reactions to bed bug bites.
Bed bug bites affect every person differently and are usually not a major health concern. However, a few people may have an allergic reaction to bed bugs and may require medical attention.
Serious Mosquito Bite Symptoms
While moderate mosquito bite symptoms are often a sign of a weakened immune system, serious mosquito symptoms like vomiting, diarrhoea and joint pain can indicate that you have contracted a mosquito-borne disease like malaria, zika or yellow fever.
If your condition is diagnosed quickly, it can be treated successfully with proper medication, however if you allow your symptoms to linger, you might be putting your health and your life at risk.
- Anaphylaxis: A dangerous and potentially life-threatening condition, anaphylaxis usually appears in intense allergic reactions and can be characterised by dizziness, wheeziness and difficulty breathing. Your immune system causes the blood vessels to swell abnormally, trigger anaphylactic shock within minutes of coming into contact with the perceived pathogen. If you are not treated quickly enough, it can be fatal
- Severe headache: A severe headache is classified as a persistent headache that causes potent amounts of pain. It can be sometimes be a symptom of mosquito-borne afflictions like as Zika or West Nile disease, so you should speak to your doctor just to confirm that you are not suffering from one of these conditions
- Vomiting: Vomiting is never a good sign and should always be treated seriously. In cases of a mosquito bite, the affliction can precede more serious symptoms and even be an indicator that you are suffering from dangerous illnesses, such as malaria, dengue fever or yellow fever
Midges Mosquitoes And Gnats
Bites from midges, mosquitoes and gnats often cause small papules to form on your skin that are usually very itchy. If you’re particularly sensitive to insect bites, you may develop:
- bullae; fluid-filled blisters
- weals; circular, fluid-filled areas surrounding the bite
Mosquito bites in certain areas of tropical countries can cause;malaria.
Also Check: Does Banana Cause Bloating And Gas
When To Get Medical Advice
Contact;your GP or call;NHS 111 for advice if:
- you’re worried about a bite or sting
- your symptoms;do not start to improve within a few days or are getting worse
- you’ve been stung or bitten in your mouth or throat, or near your eyes
- a large area around the bite becomes red and swollen
- you have symptoms of a wound infection, such as pus or increasing pain, swelling or redness
- you have symptoms of a more widespread infection, such as a high temperature, swollen glands and other;flu-like symptoms
Tick Bite Flu Symptoms: Facts
- Tick paralysis, Lyme disease and Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever affect children more than adults.
- Most tick bite cases in dogs and humans are seen in spring, summer and the warmer months.
- It is very important to remove the tick as soon as it is seen so as to prevent infection.
- Follow the same precautions as youd follow when removing ticks in animals and humans.
- Do not allow children to remove ticks themselves
- Ticks secrete a whitish substance which is like cement that allows them to clasp the hosts skin firmly. Make sure the cement and ticks body parts are all removed from the skin.
Don’t Miss: Salads For Ibs
Signs And Symptoms Of A Bed Bug Bite
Bed bugs often bite in lines or clusters. Telling a bed bug bite apart from a flea or mosquito is impossible. Bed bug bites form red, swollen areas with dark red centers. These marks are a reaction to the saliva used by the bug to numb the area while feeding. An allergic reaction to bed bug bites could increase swelling or cause hives near the surrounding area, mostly from excessive scratching.Not all people react to bed bug bites. Some people are bitten without ever forming any sort of red bumps on their skin. This does not mean you do not have a bed bug infestation. Traces of fecal matter near the edge of a mattress or suitcase or the remnants of white, oval-shaped eggs are also evidence of bed bugs. However, the strongest indicator of bed bugs in the home is discovery of the actual insect.
When To Call A Doctor About A Sting Or Bite
Most insect bites cause only minor irritation, with symptoms like swelling at the site of the bite or itching or burning. You might also feel numbness or tingling.
If youâve been bitten by a poisonous spider, you may notice any of the following:
- Intense pain at the site of the wound
- Fever or chills
- Difficulty breathing or swallowing
Also Check: Can Soy Cause Diarrhea
Signs Your Bug Bite Is Something Serious
Chest pains? Get to the doctor ASAP.
Summer is most people’s favorite season for a reason: Its days are packed with backyard barbecues, pool parties, and long days at the beach. But while the dog days provide sunshine and sangria, they also contain a nuisance found not during the rest of the year: bugs. And it’s not just that they’re annoying, either; unfortunately, many of these irritating insects also have the potential to cause serious harm, thanks to their venom and the diseases they carry.
So if we can’t avoid bugs altogether, then what is there to be done to prevent a trip to the hospital? Well, for starters, memorize the signs we’ve compiled here that a bug bite is doing some serious damage to your body. And once you read up on the warning signs to look out for, partake in one of the;20 Summer Hobbies That Will Change Your Life.
Your Stomach Is Cramping
Stomach pain is never a sign of something good. When coupled with a bug bite, this cramping could be a sign of a more serious issue, such as an allergic reaction, Babesiosis, or West Nile virus. And if your abdominal pain is coupled with vomiting and other symptoms on this list, then you should head to the doctor immediately to avoid further complications.
Don’t Miss: What Does Align Probiotic Do
Bathe Often With Soapy Water
Lastly, washing bed bug bites with soap and water can also work to relieve itch. In addition, it also lowers the chances of the skin from becoming infected from scratching.
These are proven remedies to resist scratching your affected skin. These remedies are not only effective on bed bug bites but are also applicable to other insect bites. You only have to choose which one works best for you.
Do Spider Bites Cause Brain Damage
CAN A SPIDER?? BITECAUSING DYING SKIN ACROSS THE BRIDGE OF THE NOSE AND CONTINUOUSLY EATING AWAY THE LEFT NOSTRIL CAN CAUSE BRAIN DAMAGE THUS CAUSING ANGRY AND THREATENING OUTBURSTS … View answer
regularly… Do you think the spiderbite continues to affect me? … View answer
is not running a fever . Is this cause for concern … View answer
Recommended Reading: Lettuce Causes Gas And Diarrhea
Problems Caused By Insect Bites
- Impetigo. A local bacterial infection. Gives sores, soft scabs and pus. Caused by scratching or picking at the bites. More common in itchy bites.
- Cellulitis. The bacterial infection spreads into the skin. Gives redness spreading out from the bite. The red area is painful to the touch.
- Lymphangitis. This is a bacterial infection that spreads up the lymph channels. Gives a red line that goes up the arm or leg. More serious because the infection can get into the bloodstream.
Handling Diarrhea After Tick Bite In Humans
Here are some tips to deal with diarrhea following tick bites in humans:
- Get yourself examined by a doctor immediately. Many tick bite diseases occur in phases. Lyme disease, for example, starts out as a rash and could turn into a persistent disease with chronic complications. Many people are known to suffer from lifelong symptoms including arthritis, mood changes and neurological symptoms if prompt treatment is not sought.
- Your doctor will order a series of tests include complete blood work and urine test to check for antibodies of Lyme disease.
- Take the complete dosage of antibiotics as prescribed by the doctor. Usually doxycycline or Cefuroxime may be prescribed.
- In young and elderly patients, the antibiotics could change the gut flora and could themselves lead to diarrhea. If this occurs, talk to the doctor.
- Take the medicine with a meal to lessen the gastrointestinal symptoms. Eat some crackers with the medicine. Drink plenty of water.
- The use of vitamin B complex Omega 3 and omega 6 essential fatty acids and magnesium supplements is known to help alleviate many tick bite flu like symptoms.
Recommended Reading: Do Bananas Help With Bloating
How Is An Insect Bite Reaction Treated
Treatment is based on the type of insect bite, the number of bites, and the severity of clinical signs. Treatment typically consists of removal of the stinger or other insect parts, followed by administration of anti-histamines and anti-inflammatory agents such as corticosteroids as needed.
In patients that progress to systemic or anaphylactic shock, supportive measures such as intravenous fluids, corticosteroids, oxygen therapy, and epinephrine are often required. In these severe cases, electrolyte levels will be monitored and a urinalysis will be performed to evaluate urine output and kidney function.
Treatment For Insect Bites
Treatment for insect bites depends upon what insect has bitten and how sever the reaction is. While there are numerous ways to treat insect bites, the suitability depends on what the insect is and how the person bitten is affected.
Below are some of the main treatment options for insect bites:
- Mild local reactions;can be treated with cold compresses, oral painkillers, or calamine lotion or any other topical cream. Home remedies include the application of a paste of baking soda and water or quick lime. This reduces itching and prevents bacteria build-up.
- Serious reactions require immediate medical attention. If a venomous insect as a black widow spider bites, do not wait for other symptoms such as, seizures, stomach cramps and vomiting to begin. Rush to the nearest emergency room for anti-venom. Apply a tourniquet to restrict the circulation of blood and keep calm to avoid fast spread of venom through the system.
Insect bites can be painful and itchy in general and fatal in certain cases. The severity of the condition depends upon the insect and the person’s reaction level. It is imperative to find out what insect has bitten in case of painful bites resulting severe reactions. Seek immediate medical assistance in situations of sever discomfort and reactions while home remedies and OTC anointments can sooth mild discomforts.
Also Check: Why Do I Get Diarrhea After I Eat Salad
Is It Normal For Dogs To Bite Each Other When Playing
It’s likely that their human parents didn’t teach them how to be gentle or to chew toys instead.
Most mouthing is normal dog behavior.
But some dogs bite out of fear or frustration, and this type of biting can indicate problems with aggression.
Most of the time, an aggressive dog’s body will look stiff.
When To See A Doctor
It is always best to seek the advice of a doctor when you have concerns about your health. Bed bugs feed about every five to 10 days, but infestations can break out quickly. A significant increase in bites over a period of time could be an indicating factor that your home has been infested.Detecting the presence of bed bugs in a home can be a challenging task. The sooner you treat a bed bug infestation, the better. Working with pest prevention specialists can reduce the amount of time you spend looking for a solution and prevent bed bugs from infesting other parts of your home.;
Recommended Reading: Can Probiotics Help With Bv
Treating Insect Bites And Stings
Most bites and stings are treated by:
- washing the affected area with soap and water
- placing a cold compress over the area to reduce swelling
Try not to scratch the affected area to avoid infection. If you’re in pain or the area is swollen, take painkillers such as paracetamol or ibuprofen .
The pain, swelling and itchiness can sometimes last a few days. Ask your pharmacist about over-the-counter treatments that can help, such as creams for itching and antihistamines.
If you have a more serious reaction, your GP may prescribe other medication or refer you to an allergy clinic for specialist assessment and treatment.
Symptoms Of Insect Bites And Stings
An insect bite or sting often causes a small lump to develop, which is usually very itchy.
A small hole, or the sting itself, may also be visible. The lump may have an inflamed area around it that may be filled with fluid. This is called a weal.
Insect bites and stings usually clear up within several hours and can be safely treated at home.;
Read Also: Do Bananas Help With Bloating
What Are The Symptoms Of A Bad Reaction To Bites And Stings
If youre bitten or stung, you may see or feel the insect on your skin during the attack. Some people dont notice the insect and may not be aware of a bite or sting until one or more of the following symptoms emerge:
- swelling
- swelling of the lips and throat
- confusion
- loss of consciousness
If you feel ill or experience flu-like symptoms in the days following an insect bite, see your doctor for tests to rule out infections or diseases you may have contracted from the insect.
What Are Mosquito Bites
A mosquito bite is a red, itchy bump you get when a mosquito bites your skin and itâs spit gets into your blood. Saliva from a mosquito triggers an allergic reaction that causes the area of the bite to become red, itchy, and swollen.
Only female mosquitoes bite. Warm temperatures, light, body odor, and sweat are some things that make you a mosquito target.
Most people have had mosquito bites at some time in their life. Usually, you swat a mosquito away and cope with the unpleasant but temporary itch. But some mosquito bites can spread viruses and cause serious diseases.
You May Like: Can Align Probiotic Cause Nausea
Complications That May Arise From Scratching Bed Bug Bites
Bed bug bites can cause various complications if a person is extremely allergic to them. To some, treatment is unnecessary. The amounts of suffering you can experience from these bites depend on your bodys reaction.
Bed bug bites do not spread when scratched, but scratching can lead to skin infections. Bacteria thrive in our environment, waiting for their turn to enter our system. Repeated scratching of bed bug bites can lead to skin breakage. This tiny opening will allow bacteria or viruses to go into your bloodstream.
If left untreated, pus may develop at the site of infection. If the scratching continues, the discharge from the affected area can spread the infection to other parts of your skin. Thus your simple bed bug bites can be life-threatening if the infection is left untreated.;Some of these infections caused by bacteria are ecthyma, cellulitis, and lymphangitis.
Some people can have an extreme allergy to bed bug bites. Therefore, they may show extreme symptoms from the bites on their skin.;It can trigger a life-threatening reaction called anaphylaxis. The victim will start to feel like they have a lump in their throat and may have difficulty swallowing.
To avoid further complications from bed bug bites, it is best not to take these bites for granted. They may look small and less dangerous, but they can still develop into more complicated skin problems.
What Is The Prognosis For Insect Bite Reactions
Except in rare cases of anaphylactic shock, the prognosis is excellent. Cases that involve tens to hundreds of bee stings merit a more guarded prognosis.
“Many pets that demonstrate insect bite hypersensitivity are also hypersensitive to flea and tick bites, pollens and molds, and many foods.”
Future insect bites should be avoided because many reactions worsen with repeated exposure to the offending proteins or toxins. You should always tell your veterinarian if your pet has ever experienced an insect bite reaction so that preventive measures can be taken in the future. Many pets that demonstrate insect bite hypersensitivity are also hypersensitive to flea and tick bites, pollens and molds, and many foods. Speak to your veterinarian for information on products that are safe and effective for preventing insect bites in your dog.
Also Check: Why Does Lettuce Give Me Diarrhea
Complications Of Insect Bites
- Impetigo. A local bacterial infection. Gives sores, soft scabs and pus. Caused by scratching or picking at the bites. More common in itchy bites.
- Cellulitis. The bacterial infection spreads into the skin. Gives redness spreading out from the bite. The red area is painful to the touch.
- Lymphangitis. The bacterial infection spreads up the lymph channels. Gives a red line that goes up the arm or leg. More serious because the infection can get into the bloodstream.
Fever And Low Blood Pressure
In some casesusually when someones exposed to staph in a hospital setting, like during surgerystaph bacteria can get into your bloodstream, Dr. Fey says.
This can cause a blood infection known as bacteremia, which can initially lead to a fever and low blood pressure. Once in your blood, this kind of staph infection can spread to your heart, bones, and other organsand result in a number of serious or even deadly infections. Those include pneumonia, and also a type of bone infection called osteomyelitis, which could lead to swelling or warmth in the infected area, according to resources from the Mayo Clinic.
Bacteremia could also lead to an infection of the lining of your heart known as endocarditis. Symptomslike fever, chills, night sweats, joint pain, pale skin, and weaknesscan develop very slowly, suddenly, or even come and go, per the U.S. National Library of Medicine.
Don’t Miss: Prenatal Vitamins Causing Diarrhea