A Parent's Guide to Managing Bug Bites in Children

As Southern California residents, we experience warm weather year-round, and the humidity has only increased over the years. Mosquitos are lasting longer in Southern California than ever before, and with summer camps, hiking and other adventures your child is bound to encounter various forms of insect bites.

Nothing is more agitating for a child than the constant itching and irritation of a bug bite. While most bug bites are harmless and go away on their own, it is important for parents to recognize the ones that need treatment at home and those that require medical attention.

What Are the Different Types of Bug Bites?

Not all bug bites are equal. Bites from mosquitoes, certain spiders, ticks, bed bugs, flies, and other insects can be irritating, but they can often be treated at home with medication or simple home remedies. Recognizing the type of bite and understanding the associated symptoms can help parents provide the right care for their children.

• Mosquito Bites: Mosquitoes are perhaps the most common culprits behind those itchy red bumps. These bites usually cause the affected area to become red, swollen, and itchy. The itching may start immediately or a few hours after the bite. While mosquito bites are generally harmless, they can sometimes transmit diseases such as West Nile virus, Zika virus, or malaria, depending on the region.
• Bee and Wasp Stings: Bee stings typically cause immediate pain, swelling, and redness around the sting site. The area may develop a small white spot where the stinger punctured the skin. Unlike bees, which lose their stinger after one sting, wasps can sting multiple times. Wasp stings can cause similar reactions to bee stings, including immediate pain, swelling, and redness. In some cases, bee and wasp stings can lead to severe allergic reactions known as anaphylaxis, which require emergency medical care.
• Spider Bites: Most spider bites are harmless, causing mild pain and redness. However, bites from certain spiders, like the black widow or brown recluse, can cause more severe symptoms. These bites are often painful, with the area becoming red, swollen, and sometimes filled with fluid. A characteristic red or purple ring may appear around the bite. Severe spider bites may also cause muscle cramps, fever, chills, and nausea.
• Tick Bites: Ticks are sneaky pests that attach themselves to the skin and can remain unnoticed for hours or even days. They are commonly found in wooded or grassy areas and can transmit diseases such as Lyme disease and Rocky Mountain spotted fever. A tick bite may cause a small red bump at the site, and in cases of Lyme disease, a characteristic "bull's-eye" rash may develop.
• Bed Bug Bites: Bed bugs are tiny insects that feed on human blood, typically at night. Their bites often appear in clusters or lines, causing red, itchy welts on the skin. Bed bug bites are not usually painful but can cause significant itching and discomfort.
• Fly Bites (Horseflies, Black Flies): Fly bites can cause painful red bumps that may itch and swell. These bites are often accompanied by a burning sensation.

How Do I Treat Bug Bites?

For less severe bug bites, there are several ways to alleviate pain and discomfort until the bite goes away on its own. Proper first aid can help reduce symptoms and prevent infections:

• Clean the Affected Area: Start by washing the bite or sting area with warm water and antibacterial soap. This helps to reduce the risk of infection and remove any remaining insect debris.
• Apply a Cold Compress: A cold compress or an ice pack wrapped in a cloth can reduce swelling, numb the pain, and provide relief from itching. Apply the cold compress for 10-15 minutes at a time, several times a day.
• Elevation: If the bite is on an arm or leg, elevating the limb can help reduce swelling. Combining elevation with ice application can provide additional relief.
• Use Anti-Itch Creams: Over-the-counter anti-itch creams or ointments containing hydrocortisone or calamine lotion can soothe the bite and prevent the child from scratching it further. Antihistamines can also help reduce itching and swelling.
• Pain Relief: If the bite is causing significant pain, giving a child an age-appropriate dose of pain reliever like acetaminophen or ibuprofen can help. Always consult your child’s pediatrician before administering any medication.

What Severe Allergic Reactions Can Children Have From Bug Bites?

While most bug bites are harmless, some children may have more severe allergic reactions. You may not even know that your child is allergic to a certain type of insect until you see the reaction, so always be aware and mindful if this is your child’s first bug bite. It’s crucial to recognize the signs of an allergic reaction, which may require immediate medical attention:

• Difficulty Breathing: Wheezing, shortness of breath, or trouble breathing can indicate a severe allergic reaction.
• Swelling of the Face or Throat: Swelling in these areas may signal anaphylaxis, a life-threatening reaction that requires emergency care.
• Hives or Rash: Widespread hives or a rash over the body can be a sign of an allergic response.
• Dizziness or Fainting: Feeling faint or dizzy could indicate a serious reaction.
• Nausea or Vomiting: Persistent nausea, vomiting, or stomach cramps can occur with severe reactions.
• Rapid Pulse: A fast or irregular heartbeat is a sign of a serious allergic reaction.
• Confusion or Slurred Speech: Neurological symptoms like confusion or difficulty speaking clearly may be associated with certain spider bites or severe allergic reactions.

If a child shows any of these symptoms after a bite or sting, seek medical attention immediately. Not seeking medical attention right away can be dangerous for the child. Even if the child is not showing any symptoms of allergic reactions but was stung or bitten near or on the eye, mouth, or throat, it is essential to consult a health care professional to prevent potential complications.

What Can I Do to Prevent Bug Bites?

While the risks are daunting, early prevention may reduce the chances of children being targets for insects:

• Dress Appropriately: Have children wear long sleeves, pants and closed-toe shoes when playing in areas known to have a lot of bugs. Light colored clothing makes it easier to spot ticks and other insects.
• Avoid Strong Scents: Bugs are attracted to strong scents. Avoid using heavily scented soaps, perfumes or lotions on children, as these can attract insects.
• Use Insect Repellent: Apply insect repellent containing DEET, picaridin or oil of lemon eucalyptus to exposed skin and clothing. Follow the product instructions carefully, and avoid applying repellent to a child’s hands, eyes, or mouth.
• Stay Away from Bug-Infested Areas: Teach children to avoid areas where insects are likely to be, such as ant mounds, wasp nests, or beehives. Encourage them to calmly walk away if they encounter insects rather than swatting at them, which can provoke stings.
• Check for Ticks: After playing outdoors, especially in wooded or grassy areas, check children’s skin and hair for ticks. Prompt removal of ticks reduces the risk of disease transmission. Parents may keep the removed tick in a plastic bag to check for Lyme disease
• Keep the Yard Bug-Free: Regularly mow the lawn, trim bushes, and remove standing water, where mosquitoes breed, to reduce the number of bugs in your backyard.

Bugs are an inevitable part of childhood; however, they do not have to cause stress or discomfort. At Miller Children’s & Women’s Hospital, our commitment to comprehensive care and advanced treatment ensures that children can continue to enjoy the great outdoors safely and healthily. From effective prevention tips to expert care for more serious reactions, we are dedicated to keeping kids safe, happy, and itch-free.