Bug Bites

Take the "Bite" Out of Summer
Insect bites can turn a wonderful day in the great outdoors into a nightmare. Insects circle your head on the hiking trail, land on your potato salad, and fly right into your s'mores. What a pain! And don't forget what comes later-the itch. Whether you're being annoyed by a flea, mosquito, fly, wasp, or bee, there are lots of ways you can keep them from bugging you!

Oh, those itchy bumps!
When an insect takes its first "bite" of your skin, it injects saliva or venom. Once your body notices the bite venom, it gradually becomes sensitive to the venom. So the next time you experience an insect bite, what happens? You may get a red, itchy bump.

When innocent bites go bad.
Not all bug bites are harmless. If someone in your family has had a bad reaction to a bee or wasp sting, for example, it's a good idea to keep an emergency kit available. (Your dermatologist can tell you what to put in the kit.) It's possible for a person to die from a severe reaction to an insect sting.

Some bug bites can cause bacterial infections (like impetigo). People with impetigo usually notice honey-colored, crusty patches that show up after they start scratching. Severe itching can also cause skin ulcers, scars, changes in skin color, swelling, allergic reactions, and thickened skin.

Some insects (ticks, for example) can cause serious illnesses, like Lyme disease and Rocky Mountain spotted fever. Many Northern, mid-Atlantic, and Western states are home to deer herds, and the ticks they carry.

When to see a doctor.
Dermatologists are able to treat bugbites even when they aren't sure what bit you. If you're worried about a bite, talk to your dermatologist. Your dermatologist may treat you with special creams or pills to lessen the itch.

How to pick a repellent.
DEET and permethrin insect repellents work best. Since insect repellents can be harmful if not used correctly, make sure to read and follow the label directions very carefully.

How to keep the bugs away.
Here are some ways to keep bugs from biting you in the first place.

When you're outside... DO

• Make sure your picnic area is screened in.
• Use insect repellent candles or electric bug "zappers."
• Wear a hat outdoors to cover your hair.
• Wear light-colored clothing that's snug at the wrist and ankles.
• Keep garbage cans closed and clean.
• Wipe off sweat as soon as possible. (It attracts insects.)
• If you've been swimming, shake out your towels and clothes before you use them.
• Use DEET repellents!
• Keep emergency department and poison control center phone numbers handy (and a kit if any family member is seriously allergic to stings).

When you're outside... DON'T

• Wear perfume, perfumed sun lotions, or hair spray.
• Wash with scented soaps, creams, or cosmetics.
• Wear dark-colored clothes.
• Go near rotting fruit (like apples that have fallen from trees) in picnic areas.
• Kick or move logs.
• Wear jewelry or shiny buckles.

How much DEET do you need?
If you're spending a couple of hours in the yard, try an insect repellent that's 10% to 30% DEET. If you're going camping or taking a long hike, you may need to use a repellent that's 40% to 50% DEET. Two tablespoons should be sufficient to cover the arms, legs, and face of the average adult. Note: Kids shouldn't use more than 10% DEET at any time.