Some ants can bite or sting humans. Most ant species are harmless, but certain ones have defense mechanisms that can cause discomfort.
Do Ants Bite or Sting?
Ants can bite or sting, depending on the species. All ants have mandibles, powerful jaws used for gripping, cutting, and biting. When an ant bites, it uses these mandibles to pinch the skin. Some species, like carpenter ants, also spray formic acid into the wound, causing a burning sensation.
Stinging is a distinct mechanism. Only female ants have a stinger, a modified ovipositor used to inject venom. The stinger injects venom from the ant’s venom sac. The venom is a complex mixture of compounds that can cause pain and trigger various reactions. Some ants, like fire ants, first bite to hold onto the skin, then pivot their body to repeatedly sting and inject venom.
Common Ant Species That Pose a Threat
Several ant species are known to bite or sting humans, leading to noticeable reactions. Fire ants are aggressive and found predominantly in the southern United States. They are known for their painful stings, which cause a burning sensation. They commonly bite to secure themselves before stinging multiple times in a circular pattern.
Harvester ants are also known for their painful stings. Their venom can be more toxic than fire ant venom, causing intense pain that can spread from the injection site.
Carpenter ants typically bite rather than sting. Their strong jaws deliver a painful pinch, and they often spray formic acid into the bite, causing a burning sensation. They will bite in self-defense, especially if their nest is disturbed.
Symptoms and First Aid
Reactions to ant bites and stings vary, but common symptoms include itching, redness, and swelling at the site. A sharp pinch or burning sensation often occurs immediately. For fire ant stings, small, red, itchy bumps can develop into white pustules within hours to a day. These pustules are characteristic and can be very itchy.
For first aid, wash the affected area gently with soap and water to prevent infection. Apply a cold compress or ice pack for 10 to 20 minutes to reduce pain and swelling. Over-the-counter remedies like hydrocortisone cream or calamine lotion can relieve itching and inflammation. Oral antihistamines also help manage itchiness. Do not break any blisters that form, as this can increase the risk of infection.
Prevention and When to Seek Medical Attention
To avoid ant bites and stings, be aware of your surroundings. Wear protective clothing, such as long sleeves, pants, and closed-toe shoes. Avoid disturbing ant nests or mounds, as this often provokes defensive behaviors. If ants are on your skin, brush them off quickly rather than swatting, which can trigger stinging.
Seek medical attention for signs of a severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis). Symptoms include difficulty breathing, widespread hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, or a rapid fall in blood pressure. Consult a healthcare provider if symptoms worsen, do not improve with home care after a week to ten days, or if there are signs of infection, such as increasing redness, pus, or fever.