Insect Bites
Bees, ants, mosquitoes, wasps, and ticks are notorious for leaving bites on the skin. Insect bites are a mild and common condition. It usually causes itching, redness, and swelling that can quickly disappear. Although generally benign, insect bites can still cause life-threatening diseases. Some of these diseases are dengue from mosquitoes, Lyme disease from ticks, and necrotizing fasciitis due to scratches from the insect bite.
A person with insect bites may be tempted to scratch the area because of irritation and itchiness. However, several scratches may cause open wounds, serving as the entryway for bacteria. Once the bacteria penetrate the skin, skin tissues may deteriorate and become necrotic. In fact, 75 percent of death cases of necrotizing fasciitis are due to insect bites. They begin as slightly swollen skin patches, so most people do not suspect anything. Unfortunately, most patients fail to take preventive measures and first aid to combat necrotizing fasciitis due to insect bites. This leads to worsening cases of necrotizing fasciitis.
To avoid this, do not scratch the insect bite, be wary if symptoms of necrotizing fasciitis appear, and always consult a doctor for assurance.
