Insect bites are puncture wounds caused by insects. In the UK, insects that bite include:
- midges
- mosquitoes
- fleas
- bedbugs
- ticks
When an insect bites, it releases saliva that can cause:
- inflammation (redness and swelling)
- blisters
- irritation
The symptoms of insect bites can vary depending on the type of insect and the sensitivity of the person who is bitten. For example, some people may have a small, itchy lump after they are bitten, which only lasts for a few hours. Others may develop a more serious reaction, such as blistering and a number of itchy, red lumps. See Insect bites - symptoms for more information.
Bite or sting?
As well as insects that bite, some insects sting and inject venom into the wound. In the UK, insects that sting include:
- bees (honeybees and bumblebees)
- wasps
- hornets
See the Health A-Z topic about Insect stings for more information, including how to treat them.
Risk factors
If you work outdoors or regularly take part in outdoor activities, such as camping or hiking, you are more likely to be bitten by an insect. Exposing large areas of skin, such as your legs and arms, leaves you open to being bitten.
When should I see a doctor?
See your GP if your symptoms are severe (for example, if you have a lot of swelling and blistering) or if there is pus, which indicates an infection.
If you have a severe allergic reaction to a bite, such as wheezing or difficulty breathing, call 999.
If you have been bitten by a tick, remove it as soon as possible to reduce the risk of getting a tick-borne infection, such as Lyme disease. See Insect bites - treatment for advice on how to do this.
Outlook
Most insect bites get better within a few hours. Tick bites usually take about three weeks to heal, although they can last for months if part of the tick is left in the wound.
Some insect bites can cause severe reactions, but it is unusual to catch diseases after being bitten by an insect in the UK. The risk of catching diseases, such as malaria (a serious and sometimes fatal condition that causes a high temperature) is much greater in countries such as:
- Africa
- Asia
- South America
