In the U.S., one can experience an insect bite from mosquitoes, bedbugs, mites, flies, fleas, bees or wasps, spiders, or fire ants. For bites that are identified by a small bump, rash, or swelling, you need to remove the stinger if it is visible. Apply ice on the infected area and elevate the limb to help reduce the swelling and redness. If you are in pain, take over-the-counter painkillers such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen. While most insect bites are harmless, in some people they can trigger an allergic reaction. If the bug is carrying a disease, you may not develop a general rash, but other symptoms such as fever, body swelling (especially in the face), and/or dizziness. If you have any of these symptoms, or have been bitten by several bugs at the same time, consult a doctor, particularly if you are experiencing: - Difficulty in breathing and/or pain in the chest. - Racing heartbeat. - Swelling of the throat, lips, tongue, eyes, or the face. - Headache, tiredness, body aches, chills, dizziness, nausea, or vomiting. - Fever that doesn’t go below 101°. - A spotty black and red rash that is spreading; this could be a sign of a bacterial infection. - A donut-shaped rash after a sting; could be Lyme disease. - Pus-filled boil in the sting area. Spider bites are always considered a medical emergency that requires medical treatment through an urgent care or emergency room. For other insect bites, if you have a fever, along with body aches and no major skin rash, visit a general physician. If the skin rash spreads or turns black, see a dermatologist immediately. Children and elderly people are generally more susceptible to severe reactions from insect bites. They need to be taken to a healthcare center immediately to get looked at by a doctor.