Do Ants Really Bite You?
WouterSeveral types of ants can be a nuisance. However, they are not the most dangerous bites that you can receive. If you have an allergic reaction to ant venom, you should contact your doctor or hospital immediately.
Ant bites can cause pain and itching. Depending on the type of ant you were bitten by, you may have a mild or severe reaction. In severe cases, ant venom can cause anaphylactic shock.
The most common symptoms of an ant bite include a painful bite, swelling at the bite site, and itching. These symptoms may last several hours, but most go away on their own.
If you experience a severe allergic reaction to ant venom, your symptoms may include breathing problems, hives, and difficulty breathing. You should contact your doctor or go to the nearest hospital emergency room. If your symptoms are severe, you may need to use an epinephrine injector or call 911.
In addition to pain and itching, an ant bite can cause swelling, redness, and other symptoms. Depending on the type of ant that stung you, these symptoms may last for days. You can reduce swelling by using a cold compress. You can also use an antibiotic ointment to prevent skin infections. You should use the antibiotic ointment at least three times per day.
If your ant bite causes swelling that lasts longer than four days, it may be an allergic reaction. If the swelling is severe, you should contact your doctor immediately.
