HealthCareMagic is now Ask A Doctor - 24x7 | https://www.askadoctor24x7.com

question-icon

Why Are Itchy Bite Marks Appearing On My Legs After My Return From A Vacation?

default
Posted on Sun, 29 Apr 2012
Question: I just got home from my vacation to Florida. Today is the 2nd day we have been home. I didn't notice these before, but bug bites are appearing everywhere. At least about 25 bites are on my legs, and they itch like crazy. I didn't notice so many when we got on the plane, but it seems like more are popping up. We were thinking bed bugs, but my husband and my 3 children don't have them. I doubt it was bed bugs because we were staying with family in Florida. If I didn't know better, I would think it was fleas! We did spend a lot of time on the beach, and we did see some small black flies that may have bitten.
doctor
Answered by Dr. Vidya Muralidhar (2 hours later)
Hi Vickighiz,

Thanks for the query.

A history of recent travel is very commonly associated with an insect bite.

The response after a bite is variable, and could manifest in many ways.Most bites result in redness, itching and pain.If the area is constantly scratched upon , it could pave way to a secondary infection.

Sometimes, one may experience a severe allergic reaction called anaphylaxis, manifesting with wheeze, difficulty in breathing , multiple rashes, red eyes,unconsciousness,etc

It would be wise to see a doctor immediately and get it examined.You may take an over the counter antihistaminic like BENADRYL,for the itching to subside .The doctor will also prescribe you lotions like calamine for a soothing effect on skin.Steroids may be needed systemically as well as for topical applications.You may restrict use of cosmetics till the condition subsides.

Hope this answers your query.I am available for follows ups as well.

Note: Hope the answers resolves your concerns, however for further guidance of skin related queries consult our Dermatologist.Click here to book a consultation

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
doctor
Answered by
Dr.
Dr. Vidya Muralidhar

General & Family Physician

Practicing since :2009

Answered : 299 Questions

premium_optimized

The User accepted the expert's answer

Share on

Get personalised answers from verified doctor in minutes across 80+ specialties

159 Doctors Online

By proceeding, I accept the Terms and Conditions

HCM Blog Instant Access to Doctors
HCM Blog Questions Answered
HCM Blog Satisfaction
Why Are Itchy Bite Marks Appearing On My Legs After My Return From A Vacation?

Hi Vickighiz,

Thanks for the query.

A history of recent travel is very commonly associated with an insect bite.

The response after a bite is variable, and could manifest in many ways.Most bites result in redness, itching and pain.If the area is constantly scratched upon , it could pave way to a secondary infection.

Sometimes, one may experience a severe allergic reaction called anaphylaxis, manifesting with wheeze, difficulty in breathing , multiple rashes, red eyes,unconsciousness,etc

It would be wise to see a doctor immediately and get it examined.You may take an over the counter antihistaminic like BENADRYL,for the itching to subside .The doctor will also prescribe you lotions like calamine for a soothing effect on skin.Steroids may be needed systemically as well as for topical applications.You may restrict use of cosmetics till the condition subsides.

Hope this answers your query.I am available for follows ups as well.