Some people don’t notice the insect and may not be aware of a bite or sting until one or more of the following symptoms emerge:
- swelling.
- redness or rash.
- pain in the affected area or in the muscles.
- itching.
- heat on and around the site of the bite or sting.
- numbness or tingling in the affected area.
When should I be concerned about a bite?
When to see a doctor Substantial swelling beyond the site of the sting or swelling in the face, eyes, lips, tongue, or throat. Dizziness or trouble breathing or swallowing. You feel ill after being stung 10 times or more at once.
How do you identify an insect bite on a human?
Identifying Common Insect Bites Figure out where you were when bitten. Look for a small, itchy, red mound. Look for swelling. Check for bee and wasp stings. Look for ticks. Check for head lice. Rule out serious spider bites. Look for the insect.
What are the symptoms of bee stings in Australia?
Allergies to venoms from stinging insects (bees, wasps and ants) are one of the most common causes of severe allergic reactions (anaphylaxis) in Australia. Symptoms include an all over rash, swelling of tongue or throat, trouble breathing, abdominal pain, diarrhoea, vomiting or a drop in blood pressure (shock).
How do you know if you’ve been bitten by a bee?
You will know once a bee or wasp has bitten you as there will be an instant sharp pain at the sting site. This is due to the toxic venom that is administered in the sting. If allergic, you could suffer from difficulty breathing or unconsciousness. If you have known allergies to bees/wasps, seek medical attention immediately.
Where can I find information about biting and stinging arthropods?
The Australia-wide Poisons Information Centres have a common telephone number: 131 126. Ticks and mites, spiders, scorpions and centipedes are some other well known biting and stinging arthropods. These animals are not insects.
