Pictures and Treatments for Itchy "No See Um" Bug Bites

Identifying and Treating Annoying "No See Um" Bites

No see ums are tiny biting midges that can inflict painfully itchy bites. Their stealthy nature makes them frustrating for many outdoor enthusiasts. Learning to identify and handle no see um bites brings much needed relief when these barely visible pests strike.

What are No See Ums?

No see ums, also called biting midges, get their nickname from being so incredibly small. Around 1 mm long, they resemble specks of dust more than an insect to the naked eye.

There are over 55 species of no see ums. Despite their size, they still pack a painful bite with pin point precision. Females in particular vigorously seek out hosts for the blood meal required to produce eggs.

No See Um Bite Symptoms

Within minutes of being bitten by a no see um, small raised red bumps appear, often in groups of two or three. These rapidly become intensely itchy, distractingly uncomfortable welts. The bite site may also burn or sting. Within days, the lumps subside but itchiness can linger up to two weeks.

Bites usually occur around ankles, wrists, and the neck where thin sensitive skin offers an easy meal. But no part of exposed skin escapes risk.

No See Um Bite Pictures

Photos of no see um bites reveal clusters of swollen red dots, typically:

• 1-3 mm diameter when fresh.
• Raised and round in shape.
• In groups of 2 to 6 bites.
• Highly pruritic with a piercing itch.
• Surrounded by a halo reddish inflammation.

The tiny bites resemble other insect bites but are notably more painful with intense, lingering itch compared to their small size.

Treatment for No See Um Bites

Relieving irritation from no see um bites involves:

1. Antihistamines - Oral over-the-counter anti-itch medications like Claritin can mute symptoms.
2. Cold compress - Applying an ice pack constricts blood vessels to reduce swelling and discomfort.
3. Baking soda paste - Creates a protective barrier while soothing itchy spots.
4. Hydrocortisone cream - The anti-inflammatory effect calms skin reactions.
5. Anti-itch lotions - Camphor, menthol, colloidal oatmeal relieve itching.
6. Resist scratching - Prevent secondary infections and additional swelling by not scratching bites.

Preventing No See Um Bites

Avoiding exposure is the best prevention against annoying no see um bites through measures like:

• Staying indoors in screened areas at dawn/dusk when they are most active.
• Wearing lightweight long sleeves/pants outside.
• Applying insect repellent containing DEET or picaridin.
• Using circulating fans as the tiny insects struggle to fly against any breeze.
• Eliminating standing water breeding sites outside the home.
• Landscaping yard areas with plants midges dislike such as lavender, basil, mint or citronella.

Difference from Other Bites

These tips help distinguish frustrating no see um bites from other common culprits:

• Mosquito bites - Single larger bumps that appear pink at first then develop a white welt. Still very itchy.
• Bed bug bites - Multiple red swollen itchy welts lined up in a row on exposed skin from sleeping areas.
• Flea bites - Usually around ankles, tiny pinpoint scabbed bites become intensely itchy for over a week.
• Spider bites - Painful swollen single or double lesions, may fill with fluid and lead to infection without treatment.

No see um bites can resemble flea and mosquito bites closely but tend to arrive in noticeably larger numbers concentrated in small areas.

When to Seek Medical Care

While extremely uncomfortable, most no see um bites resolve without needing medical care. However, seek prompt medical treatment if you experience:

• Signs of infection like oozing pus, expanding redness, worsening pain, fever or flu symptoms.
• Extensive facial swelling that restricts openings like the mouth, eyes or nose.
• Indications of severe allergic reaction including dizziness, difficulty breathing, chest tightness, or widespread hives.

See your doctor to identify potential allergies or secondary infections requiring prescription medication.

Coping with Annoying No See Um Bites

No see ums can be a nuisance but learning what deters them plus treating bites promptly reduces frustration. Protect yourself and keep treatment handy for when bites do occur.

Topical anti-itch creams, oral antihistamines, cold packs, calamine lotion and baking sodapastes bring relief if bites happen despite your best efforts. Following prevention guidelines and resisting the temptation to scratch minimizes potential infections.

While no see ums themselves may be nearly invisible, identifying and properly handling their painful bites and stings makes enjoying the outdoors possible, even during peak seasons when the tiny vampires come out to feed.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.