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Bug bites seem to be the universes way of slapping us on the wrist for our trivial wrongs.
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Didnt hold the elevator for someone?
Its just maddening enough to teach you a lesson, but doesnt come with any jail time.
Of course,mosquitoesdont actually keep track of your white lies and minor traffic violations.
But those incessantlyitchy bumpssure feel like punishment.
The reality is, theyre just a part of enjoying the great outdoors.
What exactly happens when a bug bites you?
(Male mosquitos exclusively feed on plants.)
These ladies cansense carbon dioxide and skin odorand use it to track down a meal (i.e.
Once theyve found you, they pierce your skin and blood vessels with their long, straw-like mouths.
This means your body is trying to battle a foreign substance (the saliva).
Your immune system plays the largest role in what jot down of reaction you have, Dr. Bank explains.
What are bug bite symptoms?
The intensity of your response to the mosquito saliva varies from person to person, says Dr. Farhang.
Of course, not all annoying bites are mosquito bites.
Two of the most common summer bite pests are spiders and ticks.
Spider bites can happen indoors and outdoors, though they have slightly differing symptoms.
Spider bite symptoms include localized pain, itching, redness, swelling, and warmth, says Dr. Farhang.
However, you should be able to spot the difference.
Spider bites are very rare, adds Dr. Anar Mikailov, a board-certified dermatologist based in Burlington, Massachusetts.
Spider bites are typically singular, as opposed to mosquitos that are multiple.
Spider bites, like mosquito bites, can be itchy, but mosquito bites are never painful.
Tick bites can result in minor symptoms like swelling or soreness, but dont usually itch.
When should you see a doctor for a bug bite?
If you notice open skin or ulcers, youll need a professional opinion.
Sometimes a simple bug bite can get infected if scratched too much, adds Dr. Farhang.
What about mosquito-borne illness?
In those instances, you will definitely need medical attention from a health care professional, says Dr Bank.
How to heal bug bites
While annoying, bug bites are generally not life-threatening.
Home remedies and over-the-counter products are usually more than enough to heal bug bites.
When it comes to at-home remedies, dont believe every wives tale.
Instead, stick to the solutions below.
Its what causes you to sneeze and itch.
Oral antihistamines generally help decrease that inflammation and itching, says Dr. Farhang.
Zyrtec and Benadryl are both effective options, though Zyrtec has less of a sedative effect.
Our tester, senior editorJesa Marie Calaor, took this equipment with her on an excursion-filled vacation.
It made me forget that I was totally covered in bug bites," she said.
It alleviates the nagging itch.
Studies have shownthat bug sprays with DEET offer the best protection against bug bites including mosquitoes and ticks.
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Kinfield Golden Hour Mosquito Repellent
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Clean Feel Insect Repellent is a boon for those with sensitive skinwith or without mosquito interference.
More skin-care how-tos:
Now, watch Charli D’Amelio’s quick beauty routine for acne-prone skin:
