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 | Many of my patients complain of "spider bites" as a reason for skin sores that appear red, painful, swollen and itchy. Most of these people never saw the spider that supposedly caused the "bites", but assume nevertheless that a spider bite was the cause of the sores. Physicians also commonly misdiagnose skin lesions as spider bites, even though spider bites only rarely occur. The more likely cause of these sore, especially when there are multiple, is a skin infection caused by community acquired methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA). So if you think you're getting multiple or recurrent spider bites -- think again -- it could be a skin infection. | |
All About Spider Bites
Spiders are commonplace in our daily lives. We see them in our homes, in our yards, and they are common subjects in horror films. While people have much anxiety about spiders causing significant injury from a bite, the reality is that the majority of spiders are harmless to humans. The exception to this is three species of spiders (at least in the United States) whose bites can result in skin lesions, neurological toxicity, and other systemic systems. These spiders include the black widow spider (Lactrodectus species), brown recluse spider (Loxosceles species) and tarantulas. While allergic reactions to spider bites are possible, it is most likely that the toxin delivered by the spider bite is the reason for any symptoms that may occur.
| All About Mosquito Bites
Many of the mosquito saliva proteins can cause immune reactions, including allergic reactions. Typically, however, most people have a variety of reactions to mosquito bites, and the symptoms change over time, depending on the amount of bites a person received. These reactions can include both immediate and delayed swelling and itching around the bite area. These reactions tend to decrease in frequency after being bitten by mosquitoes over many years. Generally, people with the above described reactions are not diagnosed as being "mosquito allergic." This term is reserved for people with more severe or unusual reactions.
| More on Insect Stings and Bites
Nearly everyone has experienced an insect bite or sting at some point in their lives. Most of the time, these stings and bites lead to mild pain or itching right where they occurred. Sometimes, however, people can experience more severe reactions that could be caused by an allergic reaction to the sting or bite. Allergic reactions most commonly occur with bites or stings from these insects.
| Allergy Shots and Drops (Immunotherapy)
Discussion of what allergy shots are, what they are used for and how they work are presented. Risks and benefits of allergy shots are also described.
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