Pharmacist explains how to tell which insect has bitten or stung you - and if it is serious

dailyrecord.co.uk:

A pharmacist has warned people not to assume insect bites or stings are harmless as warmer weather approaches - as ignoring them could be life-threatening.Something as simple as discolouration or a change in texture or feel of skin can be a silent indicator of the first signs of an underlying health condition, reports Bristol Live.George Sandhu, Deputy Pharmacy Superintendent from Well Pharmacy, warned people to be vigilant when it comes to insect bites and stings.The expert said: "Insect bites and stings are not typically serious and often improve within a few days.

However, bites and stings can sometimes lead to infection or trigger a severe allergic reaction."Some insect bites can even transmit illnesses like Lyme disease from ticks, scabies from mites, and malaria from mosquitoes in certain parts of the world.

Symptoms of an insect bite or sting usually include pain in the affected area and a swollen lump on the skin, which may appear red.

It's essential to be vigilant."Read on below for 10 of the most common insect bites and stings that could spark concern.Typically, a wasp or hornet sting will leave a small mark where the stinger has entered the skin.