What should you know about different types of insect bites?

A bite may produce a small itchy bump, a larger area of swelling, a blister or several marks in a line or cluster. Mosquitoes, fleas, bedbugs, ants and other insects can trigger overlapping reactions, so timing, location, travel, pets and sleeping arrangements may be more useful than appearance alone. Some people develop papular urticaria, in which repeated bites cause itchy bumps that persist or recur.

Scratching can break the skin and allow infection. After inflammation settles, a dark or lighter mark may remain as post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, particularly in deeper skin tones.

Wash the area gently, apply a cool compress and avoid scratching. Keep fingernails short and cover broken skin with a clean dressing. A pharmacist or clinician may suggest an oral antihistamine for itch or a topical corticosteroid for a suitable inflamed area; product choice matters around the eyes, face, groin and broken skin.

Look for an ongoing source by washing bedding, checking pets and inspecting indoor or outdoor exposure areas. Do not apply household chemicals or unknown insect products directly to skin. If several people develop new bites, arrange advice about environmental control.

Get emergency help for trouble breathing, throat or tongue swelling, faintness or widespread hives after a bite. Seek prompt medical care for rapidly expanding redness, severe pain, fever, pus, red streaks, facial or eye swelling, or a bite that is worsening instead of settling. A clinician should also review recurrent bites that are disrupting sleep or causing extensive scratching.

Does this pattern fit an insect-bite reaction or another rash? Is the skin infected? Which antihistamine or topical treatment is suitable for my age, medicines and body site? Could the lingering colour change be post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation?