Stings and insect bites

Find out what the sources are of insect bites, which insects causes stings or bites and what does a bite look like.

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Insect bites often cause one or more red bumps that are usually itchy and sometimes painful.

Often there's a small hole in the middle of the bite, perhaps with the end of the sting sticking out.

Apart from this local irritation, the bite is not usually dangerous provided the victim is not allergic to insect bites.


What are the sources of insect bites?

The sources of insect bites are recognised to be wide and varied.

Insects, such as fleas can be found on domestic pets, eg dogs and cats; and also on birds.

Bedding and other soft furnishings around the house can also harbour bed bugs and fleas.

About 95 per cent of the fleas on a pet will be in the form of eggs, larvae and pupae (ie in the household) rather than on the animal.

Simply working in your garden can expose you to fleas and other insects.

Travelling can also put you at risk. Depending on your destination – exposure to mosquitoes, ticks and sandflies can occur.

Which insects cause stings or bites?

Stings or bites are caused by midges, gnats, horseflies, bees, wasps, ants, some spiders, fleas, lice, etc.

Wasp stings cause the most allergic reactions in the UK. One or more stings, over a period of time, may be required from a particular insect to sensitise your immune system and cause an allergic reaction.

Twenty per cent of people who have experienced an allergic reaction to an insect sting or bite will have milder or no reaction the next time they are stung or bitten by the same type of insect.

Therefore, it's impossible to predict the outcome of the next sting for any individual. If you're sensitised to wasp venom, it's unlikely that you'll suffer the same response to bee venom.

What does a bite look like?

There will be one or more swollen red bumps on the skin. In the middle, you will often see a small hole, which might have the insect's sting sticking out of it.

If you wake up in the middle of the night having noticed a painful or itchy lump, check to see if other parts of the body are affected. If there is only one bump, or four or five of them close together, you have probably been stung or bitten. Fleas often bite four or five times in the same area so you may find a couple of these clusters on your body.

Some children's diseases can also cause bumps and red, swollen skin. If in doubt, consult your doctor.

What are the symptoms of insect bites?

The skin becomes red, swollen, itchy and can be painful. These are the most common symptoms. Sometimes bites cause an allergic reaction. Bites can become infected by scratching. Look out for a rash or swelling that gets worse instead of better. If this happens, see a doctor.

Call your doctor immediately if you notice any of the following symptoms:

  • the person has been stung by many insects at the same time
  • a rash or swelling that gets worse instead of better
  • if the site is red, tender and swollen
  • headache
  • dizziness
  • nausea (feeling sick)
  • pains in the chest
  • choking or wheezing
  • difficulty breathing.

    These may be symptoms of allergy and can be life-threatening if the victim goes into shock. See a doctor immediately or dial 999 for an ambulance.

    How to treat an insect bite or sting


    Wash the bite with soap and water, then cool off the skin with ice cubes or an ice-pack that has been wrapped in a cloth or thin towel. Rest the affected area and elevate it if possible to prevent excessive swelling. Do this immediately after the victim has been stung.

    If necessary, use a painkilling cream or gel or an antihistamine to soothe the itch. If you or a member of your family are allergic to insect bites, talk to your doctor or pharmacist before going on holiday. They may tell you to take an antihistamine with you in tablet form; or adrenaline as an EpiPen injection. If so, make sure you ask how to use them correctly.

    Anyone who gets a rash or an itch requiring medical treatment, or who may simply feel unwell following a bite or sting should not drive, as there is a risk of passing out. If in doubt, consult your doctor.

    Some hospitals provide an immunology or allergy clinic that may be able to confirm which venom an individual is sensitive to. This can be particularly useful if they have previously experienced an allergic reaction following a bite or a significant localised reaction with swelling of over 10cm diameter.

    Insect bites and allergies

    People who are allergic to insect bites should carry a card, bracelet or necklace that lets other people know about their allergy. If the doctor has prescribed medication for you to be used in case of an allergic reaction, it is important that both you and your family know exactly how to use it.

    How to avoid getting stung

    • Insect repellents are effective.
    • Be extra careful if you are eating or drinking (especially sweet things) outside.
    • Long sleeves, long trousers, socks, shoes and gloves help protect you from stings.
    • Close the windows in the house and the car to keep the insects out.
    • Protective gear such as mesh covers for the face can be very effective against the nuisance of the highland midge in summer for example.

      Based on a text by Vibeke Manniche, paediatrician, PhD

      Last updated 03.01.2010

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