A British pharmacist reveals a sign that distinguishes ordinary insect bites from bites from ticks infected with Lyme disease, warning of symptoms that may indicate a serious infection and require immediate medical attention.
Richard Harrison, a pharmacist at Asda pharmacies in the UK, explained that the appearance of a red, circular rash around the bite site is one of the most prominent warning signs of Lyme disease, a bacterial disease transmitted to humans through the bites of infected ticks.
The infection may present with various symptoms, including fatigue, fever, and joint pain, and in some cases, it can progress to neurological problems such as paralysis. Experts emphasize that early treatment reduces the risk of long-term complications.
Infected ticks are found in grassy and wooded areas, where their activity increases during the summer.
Harrison advised removing ticks from the skin as soon as possible, explaining the correct way to do so: "Use clean, precise tweezers to grasp the tick as close to the skin as possible, then pull it slowly and steadily upwards."
He added: "Avoid licking or squeezing the tick, as this may leave parts of it inside the skin or increase the likelihood of infection spreading to the bite site."
At the same time, the pharmacist warned that some bites can cause serious complications, explaining that infections resulting from bites can, in severe cases, lead to blood poisoning, a serious condition that occurs when the immune system overreacts to an infection
He explained that bites from mosquitoes, flies, and spiders are among the types of bites that can turn into infections if not treated properly, and called for consulting a pharmacist when signs such as swelling, discharge, or increased pain appear.
He also warned of the risk of severe allergic reactions that can occur after some bites or stings, even in people who have never experienced allergies before. Signs of an allergic reaction include swelling of the throat or tongue, difficulty breathing, a swollen or itchy rash, and cold skin.
To help people identify the type of insect causing the bite, Harrison explained that mosquito bites usually appear as small, raised bumps that cause itching, may become red or inflamed, and often appear on exposed areas such as the arms, legs, and face.
Horsefly bites are characterized by being painful immediately after they occur, because the insect cuts the skin instead of piercing it, and may cause a large red spot or noticeable swelling and sometimes bruising around the bite site.
He noted that children may feel more pain from these bites than itching, and advised keeping the affected area clean, applying cold compresses, and avoiding scratching to reduce irritation.
Regarding the bites of small mosquitoes, he explained that while they are tiny, they can cause intense itching and often appear in clusters on the legs, ankles, or arms. Treatment focuses on relieving the itching by cooling the affected area, washing it with mild soap and water, and using appropriate methods to reduce irritation.
Harrison also discussed flea bites, explaining that they appear as small, red, itchy bumps, often concentrated around the ankles and lower legs. He added that they may appear in clusters of three or more, sometimes in a straight line.
He stressed that if symptoms persist or signs of infection appear after flea bites, a health professional should be consulted.
