When it comes to bug bites, one of the worst outcomes is blisters. These fluid filled blisters are not just uncomfortable, but can also be a sign of a more serious reaction. While most bug bites are just a minor nuisance, some bites and stings can cause a big reaction, including blisters.
In this blog, we explore everything you need to know about blisters from bug bites and bee stings, including:
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Common causes of blisters from different types of bug bites
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How to recognize and treat anaphylaxis
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Treatment and prevention options
Read on to learn more about blisters from bug bites, the risks from different insects and how to manage and prevent them.
What Causes Blisters from Bug Bites?
Blisters from bug bites are caused by a severe allergic reaction to the insect’s saliva or venom. When an insect bites, it injects proteins into the skin which can cause the body to react. For some, this reaction is mild, leading only to redness and itching. For others, it can be more severe, resulting in fluid-filled blisters.
Insects that can cause blisters include mosquitoes, fleas and bedbugs. For example, mosquito bites can cause itchy lumps and swelling and in some cases fluid filled blisters. Flea bites can cause red itchy spots that may blister in more sensitive people. Bedbug bites are notorious for causing intense itching, swelling, and sometimes blistering.
Severe Reactions and Risk Factors
Some people may have severe allergic reactions to insect bites. These can include severe swelling, intense itching and difficulty breathing. In cases of severe reactions, it's important to get medical help immediately.
Venomous spiders like the brown recluse and black widow can also be a problem. A brown recluse spider bite can cause severe pain, a red rash and potentially serious skin infections. Black widow spider bites can cause severe pain and systemic symptoms like muscle aches and joint pain. If you think you’ve been bitten by a spider, especially these venomous ones, monitor the bite area for severe swelling and get medical help if symptoms worsen.
Furthermore, tick bites from deer flies can transmit diseases like Lyme disease. While ticks don’t usually cause blisters, a tick bite can be serious if not treated properly.
What to Look For in Insect Bite Syptoms
Symptoms of blisters from bug bites can vary. Here are some common ones:
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Itchy Lumps: Bug bites are itchy lumps which may blister.
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Red Rash: The bite area becomes red and inflamed and may show up as red bumps or red marks
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Fluid Filled Blisters: Blisters filled with clear or yellowish fluid may appear around the bite.
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Painful Bites: Some bites, especially from venomous spiders, can be painful and swollen.
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Severe Reactions: Difficulty breathing, severe swelling and intense itching may be a sign of a serious reaction.
Treatment and How to Prevent Bug Bites
Treating blisters from bug bites involves:
Cold Compresses
Apply cold compresses to the bite area to reduce swelling and pain.
Allergy Medicine
Over the counter antihistamines can help with itching and allergic reactions.
No Scratching
Scratching can make it worse and increase risk of infection.
Natural Cream
To soothe and treat blisters from bug bites try our Organic Manuka Skin Soothing Cream. This cream is effective because of its natural ingredients. For example manuka honey’s anti-inflammatory properties reduce redness and swelling around the bite area, its antimicrobial properties prevent bacterial infections that can occur from scratching and the moisturising properties keep the skin hydrated which is essential for healing and comfort.
When to Go to Emergency
In some cases you need to go to emergency. If you have:
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Breathing Difficulties: Difficulty breathing is a sign of a serious allergic reaction.
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Severe Swelling: Swelling around the bite area is serious.
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Severe Pain: Intense pain or worsening of symptoms needs to be seen by a doctor.
Find Soothing Relief from Bug Bites Today
Blisters from bug bites can be an annoying issue, but understanding their causes and how to manage them can help alleviate discomfort.
