3TV Interviews Dr. Janice Johnston About Bug Bites

Lina De Florias of 3TV joined Dr. Janice Johnston, Medical Director at Arrowhead Health Centers, to discuss bug bites and how you can tell if a bug bite is serious. During the Arizona summers, there’s an abundance of mosquitoes and scorpions that may be of threat to you or someone you know. Most people get small swelling bumps when they are bitten by a mosquito, spider, or ant. This is due to a small allergic reaction to a bug’s saliva that is non-threatening but a nuisance nonetheless. You should start to worry about your bug bite if your small bump transgresses into  welts or hives. If you experience a shortness of breath or a racing heartbeat, these are also signs of a dangerous bug bite reaction.

Bug Bites: When to Visit Your Doctor

The best time to consider visiting a doctor for these issues is when anti-itch lotions or anti-inflammatory medication has no effect on your condition. Take note of any systemic symptoms occurring throughout your body so that your doctor can prescribe the best solution. It’s also important to be able to recognize what type of bug has bitten you as well. Mosquitoes produce round, white bumps with a small dot in the center, spiders leave fang marks, bee stings cause small welts or white puncture spots, and scorpion stings are rarely visible but may cause swelling. One way to prevent getting stung by these insects is to use bug repellant, though they are not always 100% effective. Bug spray is also safe for older children to be exposed to but you should avoid using it on children under 2 years old. You should be wary of applying any chemicals to your child’s skin including those in bug sprays and sunscreen. Consider purchasing a stroller with a mesh cover to protect your young ones from insect bites year round.

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