Most insect bites or stings cause nothing more than minor discomfort to the individual they have targeted. Still, some encounters can become deadly, especially if the individual has a severe allergic reaction to the insect’s venom from the bite or sting. The body’s immediate response to the bite or sting can cause your immune system to kick into high gear with a response that will include redness and swelling at the site of the bite or sting. The main difference between an insect bite and a sting will ultimately depend on which insect did the harm. If the insect has a stinger, most likely you would have been stung, if the insect does not, you were probably bitten. However, the reaction to either is usually the same as showing signs and symptoms in relation to the venom targeting your body.