Fire ants are among the few types of ants in the United States that often sting people. There are two types: an ant with red heat, Solenopsis invictaand an ant of black fire, Solenopsis Richter.
The two types are imported, coming from South America originally. But today, red fire ants are mainly found in the South and sometimes in California and Puerto Rico. Black fire ants, on the other hand, are not as widespread and are limited north of Arkansas, Mississippi and south of Tennessee.
It is a common false idea that the ants of fire bit. “Fire ants do not bite. They deliver a stitching via their tail, ”explains Michael Merchant, PHD, professor emeritus of entomology at Texas A & M University in Dallas. “Only the females sting, and their stinger is very clear and offers venom.” Dr. Mercihant says that fire ants are well named because their bite causes a warm and fiery sensation on the skin.
When fire ants are disturbed, they act quickly and aggressively, often swarm the intruder. They can even run the vertical surfaces.
It is possible to be stung by a lonely fire ant. “You can be outside in a garden and get one on your arm or leg,” explains Mercihant. “But generally, people make the mistake of stopping and standing on a mound without realizing it, so they find themselves covered and they get hundreds of bites.”
Other symptoms
“The bites begin like small red spots, and, after a day or two, a white pustule forms that itching and a little painful,” explains Merchant. These symptoms generally resolve in three to eight days.
The dart of an ant is not barbed wire, so it can sting several times. “You can see a row of red brands, and that’s where an ant has caught and stabbed his dart in a semicircle,” he said.
Some people can develop a strong swelling talent and itching.
What to do about them
The merchant says that, in most cases, fire antics do not require any medical treatment. You can wash the stings with soap and water and apply ice to the area affected to keep the swelling. You can use over -the -counter antihistamines or topical steroid creams, such as hydrocortisone, if necessary to reduce itching.
If the bite continues to swell or grow after a day or two, you can have a secondary infection. Call your doctor immediately, especially if you also have a fever, muscle pain or pseudo-grippal symptoms.
When to consult a doctor
In rare cases, a fire ant bite can cause anaphylaxis. It is a serious and fatal allergic reaction. The signs of anaphylaxis are generally presented within 5 to 30 minutes depending on the contact and are potentially fatal if they are not treated properly or immediately.
Go to the nearest emergencies if you notice one of the following symptoms, which may indicate an anaphylactic response:
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