Insect bites mostly look like little red bumps on your skin that are often itchy. They are the result of an injection of a foreign substance into your skin. The introduction of this foreign substance may trigger an allergic reaction, depending on the sensitivity of the person to that substance.

This foreign substance can come from either a venomous or a non-venomous insect. A venomous insect bites or attacks the person as a defense mechanism, injecting toxic venom into the person's skin to keep him away. Insects such as bees, hornets, and fire ants are classified as venomous insects. Non-venomous insects, on the other hand, feed themselves by injecting anti-coagulant saliva into your skin. These insects are mosquitoes, ticks, biting flies, and some spiders.

Mosquito bites usually are visible on a person's uncovered areas, such as hands, arms, legs, ankle, and the neck. They are easy to spot, as they swell easily. Flea bites mostly are visible in the ankle area and lower leg. They don't appear instantly but can become increasingly itchy after long hours. A spider bite literally is visible because you can see the bite mark in the middle of a visible swelling lump on the affected area of the skin. The skin's reaction also varies depending on the kind of spider.

The most common effect when the skin gets irritated from an insect bite is itching. This can be treated with any Benadryl lotion. It helps lessen the swelling and eventually reduces irritation. Another effect is stinging, which can be remedied just by placing a cold wet towel on the affected area of the skin. Others may have a serious allergic reaction to an insect bite. Face swelling, difficulty in breathing, fever, and even shock are the serious effects insect bites can cause.

If the swelling and stinging still persist, you may be having an acute allergic reaction to the bite and will need to see a doctor immediately.