Ant Bites

It is a well-known fact that ants are social insects that are found in almost every part of the earth, except, the Antarctica and some remote islands. Ants are relatives of bees and play an important role in our ecology as scavengers and predators. However, these insects can wreak havoc by damaging crops, invading human habitat and can also inflict bites. Biting is their way of attacking and defending. Even the name 'ant' is derived from the German word that means 'the biter'. However, the severity of ant bites differ with the species. There are some ant species that can sting. Ant bites symptoms may range between mild localized pain to life-threatening conditions, depending on the ant species.

Ant Bites Symptoms and Ant Species

Apart from creating nuisance, ants can inflict bites, which can be dangerous in some cases. While most ant species cause minor discomfort to humans through biting, some species can cause severe symptoms. They often inject or spray chemicals, like, formic acid, when they bite. This gives rise to ant bites symptoms, like itching, pain, swelling, etc. In case of people with allergy to ant venom, the symptoms can be more severe and can turn fatal too. Such people may experience symptoms, like, difficulty in breathing, rapid pulse, difficulty in speaking, incoherence, nausea, vomiting, excessive swelling or dizziness. As mentioned above, there are a few species of ants that can cause extremely painful bites. While some of them are not considered life-threatening, others can prove fatal to the victim.

The sting caused by bullet ants in Central and South America are considered to be most painful, but, these stings are not fatal for normal humans. The stings caused by the jack jumper ant (hopper ant, jumper ant or jumping jack) of Australia can be life-threatening, but, an antivenin has been developed for treating such stings. Fire ants are among the most dangerous ants, as far as the ant bites symptoms are concerned. These aggressive ants are unique, because, they have poison sacs containing piperidine alkaloids. They inject these chemicals into the human body, causing severe itching, pain and swelling. Fire ant bites can prove fatal to those with allergy. You may also read more about do flying ants bite.

Ant Bites Treatment

Now, you know that the severity of ant bites symptoms vary with the ant species. The symptoms may be more severe and sometimes life-threatening in people, who are allergic to ant venom. However, in most cases of ant bites, the symptoms subside within a few hours. You may also resort to some ant bite remedies, like, cucumber juice, aloe vera juice, onion slice, tea tree oil, tea bags, etc. You have to clean the skin with soap and water, before applying any of these remedies. If you develop itching, swelling, pustules, etc., avoid scratching of the area, as it can cause infection. Swelling caused by ant bites can be relieved with ice packs. In case of severe allergic reactions, like, breathing trouble, wheezing, nausea, dizziness, hives, etc., you have to rush the victim to the emergency room for immediate medical attention. The same applies to ant bites on toddlers and kids.

Now, you have a basic idea regarding ant bites and ant bites treatment. All you have to do is to act swiftly for getting relief from the symptoms. You can either opt for some home remedies or over-the-counter lotions for ant bites. In case of severe allergic reactions, immediately seek medical attention. For others, the symptoms will subside within a few hours. If the symptoms persist or worsen, you have to contact a doctor immediately.