Bug Bites Directory
Bug bites are fairly common. Some bites, such as one from a fire ant or a sting from a bee, cause immediate discomfort. Others trigger itching or go unnoticed. Bug bites or stings are seldom dangerous, but in some cases they can lead to a life-threatening allergic reaction, severe symptoms, or a serious medical condition, such as malaria or Lyme disease. Follow the links below to find WebMD's comprehensive coverage about bug bites, what they look like, how to treat them, and much more.
Medical Reference
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When to Call a Doctor About a Sting or Bite
When is an insect bite something you can manage at home--and when should you call the doctor? Learn how to tell the difference between a single sting or bite, and when a doctor's visit is in order.
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Treating Insect Bites and Stings in Children
Insect bites and stings are common in children. Try these first aid steps for bug bites and stings.
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Chigger Bites - What They Look Like and Treatment Options
Learn what to do if you get an itchy skin rash from the bites of chiggers, tiny pests that live in fields and forests.
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What Is Chagas Disease?
Chagas disease, spread by “kissing bugs,” is now affecting a part of the U.S.
Features
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How to Be Repellent -- to Bugs
Want to avoid bug bites this year? Get them before they get you.
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Mosquito Bites and West Nile Virus: When to See a Doctor
Most mosquito bites cause just redness, swelling, and itching. But mosquitoes can carry West Nile virus. Here’s what to watch for.
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How to Avoid Summer's Health Woes
Experts explain strategies for preventing 6 common maladies from ruining your summer fun.
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Safer Bug Spray: Natural Bug Repellents
WebMD discusses natural options for insect control and offers comparisons of natural repellents with popular chemical repellents such as DEET.
Video
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What Attracts Mosquitoes?
Are you a mosquito magnet? Research shows carbon dioxide, heat, alcohol, and genes could play a role.
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Bee Stings and Mosquito Bites
It’s not enough that insects look creepy, but some actually bite and sting. Ouch!
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Treating Bites and Stings
Learn how to prevent the allergic reactions caused by bugs.
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Allergy-Triggering Bugs
Lots of people are scared of bugs, but if you have allergies, these are the 3 worst pests.
Slideshows & Images
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Identifying Bugs and Bug Bites
Learn to identify ticks, poisonous spiders, fleas, chiggers, and other bugs. See what their bites and stings look like -- and how to find relief.
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Picture of Fire Ant Bites
A fire ant attaches to a person by biting with its jaws. Then, pivoting its head, it stings from its belly in a circular pattern at multiple sites.
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Things That Burrow Into Your Skin
What’s under your skin? Pictures of parasites that burrow: ticks, chiggers, scabies, screwworm, and more.
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Creepy Critters: What's Living In Your House?
Get to know your bug bunkmates: Meet the critters that share you home with you, from ants, roaches, and beetle to spiders and more.