What Do Ants Release When They Bite?
WouterSeveral species of ants release venom when they bite. The venom is used as a defense mechanism. Some people have an allergic reaction to the venom. Symptoms include swelling, redness, itching, and pain at the bite site.
Ants release venom through their stingers. These stingers are much thinner than the human hair. Stinging ants can deliver 13 drops of venom per second.
If you are bitten by an ant, you may experience symptoms including a small, red bump that is elevated from the surrounding skin. These are known as “pimples”. Depending on the species, a small blister may form within 8 to 24 hours.
If you experience severe symptoms, call 911 and go to the nearest hospital emergency room. You can also use EpiPen, an auto-injector that reverses anaphylactic reactions.
If the bite is small, you can treat it with a cold compress. An over-the-counter anti-inflammatory pain reliever can also help. You can also use a topical steroid to reduce the swelling.
If your ant bite is severe, you should also call for medical help. In rare cases, a severe allergic reaction can occur. The symptoms may include difficulty breathing, dizziness, or hoarseness. These reactions are more common in children.
Ant bites are typically harmless, but they can cause infections. The bites can develop into pustules, which are white and home to infection fluids and pus. You should also avoid scratching the bite. If you do scratch it, you may infect the area and cause scarring.
