Horsefly Bites and Treatment

Horseflies are big, hairy flies, classified under the Tabanidae family of insects. They are also called March flies or gadflies. There are more than 3,000 varieties of horseflies found all over the world, three of which are the greenhead horsefly, striped horse fly and black horsefly. Horseflies live and breed in marshy or wet areas close to water bodies, and are more active in a warm and sunny climate. Male horseflies feed on nectar and pollen, while female horseflies feed on the blood of mammals. Horseflies play an important role in the pollination of a variety of flora. Horseflies are also known for their extremely painful bites and hence are often considered quite deadly insects. This article will help you with some information on how you can prevent as well as treat their bites.

How a Horsefly Bites

Horseflies bite and cut the skin with the help of their mandible-like, serrated scimitars (a convex shaped point). They slice off the top layer of the flesh and lick the blood. Therefore, their bites are very painful to the victim. A horsefly bite can, at times, be more irritating than a bee sting.

Symptoms of Horsefly Bites

• When a horsefly bites, a red bump develops immediately on the skin. The release of histamine from the tissues surrounding the area of the bite causes itching. This results in the development of an itchy and irritating bump.
• A horsefly bite can cause allergies such as skin rashes, wheezing and hives.
• It can lead to itchy, pink or red swelling around the lips and eyes as well as weakness and dizziness.
• If you notice redness and pus formation, and feel extreme pain in the area of the bite; there are chances of infection. In such a situation, you need to seek medical attention immediately.

How to Treat Horsefly Bites

Understanding treatment options for horsefly bites can help alleviate the pain and prevent infection. Normally, insect bites heal within 2-3 days; but one bite from a horsefly may take longer to heal. You should seek immediate medical care in order to prevent potential infections. Given below are some helpful tips for the treatment of horsefly bites.

• When you realize that you've been bitten by a horsefly, immediately clean the wound using an antiseptic soap and water. Pat dry the area with a clean, dry towel.
• It is advisable to apply a topical hydrocortisone cream or benadryl cream on the area of the bite. This will help reduce the itching and swelling that the bite brings with it.
• An anti-histamine tablet or piriton tablet can help decrease the level of discomfort.
• Another effective remedy is to place a tea towel soaked in hot, salty water on the bite area to relieve the pain.
• Application of vinegar or aloe vera juice helps relieve the pain, while application of an ice cube or cooling pad helps reduce the itchiness.
• After any of the above topical applications, cover the area with a loose gauze bandage. If you experience allergic reactions or breathing difficulty, consult a doctor immediately.

How to Prevent Horsefly Bites

Horsefly bites can be prevented by eradicating the horseflies from the surroundings. Here's how you can do that.

• Using an effective insecticide is an effective way to get rid of horseflies.
• You can also use a horsefly trap to catch them.
• If you have to travel to areas known for the presence of horseflies, cover your body with appropriate clothing.
• Also, apply an effective insect repellent that contains diethyltoluamide (DEET).
• You can also opt for garlic supplements, which help keep horseflies away and prevent their bites.

There you go. Preventive, precautionary and tending measures as far as horsefly bites are concerned. Now you know how to prevent and treat horsefly bites. So take care and remember that prevention is better than cure.