How Can I Know If a Bug Bite Is Infected?

June 1, 2022

Bug bites happen all the time in the spring and summer. Even if you didn’t mean to disturb a bee or wasp, they’re tough to avoid if you spend an extended amount of time outdoors during warm weather.

That said, most bug bites are relatively harmless. There are some cases, though, in which they can cause some concern. Our AFC Urgent Care Mooresville team explains below, so keep reading!

What Bug Bit Me?

This is a common question that we ask ourselves once we find a red, itchy swollen spot on our body. It can be tough to know the answer since every bite isn’t exactly the same, but there are a few common clues to be on the lookout for.

For example, most bug bites cause red bumps with pain, itching or burning, but some bites also feature blisters or welts. Check out our guide that we’ve laid out below so you can get a better idea of what might have bitten or stung you.

Common Bug Bite Signs

Bedbugs leave a small bite mark on the skin that is red and itchy. In rare cases, they can cause a serious allergic reaction.
Bee stings cause a red skin bump with white around it.
Flea bites leave an itchy welt on the skin, often on the ankles and legs.
Mosquitoes leave a raised, itchy pink skin bump.
Spider bites cause minor symptoms like red skin, swelling and pain at the site, or very serious symptoms like an oozy, dark hole that signify the necessity of emergency care.
Ticks can carry Lyme disease, and their bite leaves a rash that looks like an expanding bull’s-eye.

Is My Bug Bite Infected?

Infected bug bites are more common than you might think, and they’re usually caused by people messing with their bites or stings. The most common reason a bug bite or sting gets infected is because someone scratches the bite too much, or they try to pop a bite that turns into something that resembles a blister or pimple.

Furthermore, an infection is the most common reason a bite needs medical care. If your bite or sting shows the signs or symptoms we’ve listed below, visit our AFC center. You will likely be prescribed oral antibiotics or a topical antibiotic to get rid of the infection.