Types of Insect Bites
Learn to identify ticks, poisonous spiders, fleas, chiggers, and other bugs in this WebMD slideshow. See what their bites and stings look like -- and how to find relief.
Trombiculidae (/ t r ɒ m b ɪ ˈ k juː l ɪ d iː /; also called berry bugs, harvest mites, red bugs, scrub-itch mites and aoutas) are a family of mites. The best known of the Trombiculidae are the chiggers.
Brown recluse spider bites often go unnoticed initially because they are usually painless bites. Occasionally, some minor burning that feels like a bee sting is noticed at the time of the bite. Symptoms usually develop 2-8 hours after a bite. Keep in mind that most bites cause little tissue destruction.
Fire ant bites or stings can cause intense, instantaneous pain. This usually subsides into itching, which can last for a few days. However, if a person is allergic, one sting may be life-threatening. Read on to learn more about avoiding stings, recognizing an allergic reaction, and seeking the right type of treatment.
Flea bites vs. bed bug bites: How do they look different? Telling the difference between flea bites and bed bug bites can be a challenge. This is because everyone reacts differently. Bites from both bed bugs and fleas can cause round, red bumps on the surface of the skin. It is commonly noted that fleas are more likely to bite around the ankles or lower legs. However, the only way to identify the culprit behind a flea bite or bed bug bite is to find evidence of the bug itself.
Although many different types of insects in the United States are able to inflict a poisonous bite or sting (meaning they are venomous), the insects most likely to cause medical problems are bees (including the domestic honey bee, its Africanized "killer bee" race, and the bumble bee), wasps (including paper wasps, hornets, and yellow jackets), and ants (including the fire ant).
Most bug bites and stings from common insects are harmless and heal quickly. But some bug bites and stings, like those from fire ants, wasps, hornets, and bees, may cause intense pain or even a serious allergic reaction.
Insect bites and stings are common and usually harmless. Insect bites and stings often result in pain, redness and swelling in the injured area. Allergic persons can experience a localized allergic reaction (swelling, heat, or itching at the site) or a systemic allergic reaction such as hives, wheezing, shortness of breath, faintness, and swelling of face or mouth.
The majority of the spiders in the United States aren't poisonous, so even if they do bite you, their bites will heal within a week or so. But some spider bites can lead to serious complications if left untreated.