Biting midges are tiny insects, typically 1 to 3 millimeters long, often called “no-see-ums.” Only female midges bite, requiring a blood meal to produce eggs. The bite is a reaction to the insect’s saliva, which contains proteins that trigger an immune response in human skin. Identifying these bites can be difficult because the insects are often unnoticed until itching and irritation begin.
Visual Characteristics of Midge Bites
The initial midge bite is typically a tiny red dot or a barely visible pinprick on the skin. This mark results from the midge’s mouthparts, which lacerate the skin to access blood capillaries. Because the insects often swarm and feed in groups, the bites rarely appear in isolation. They are frequently seen in clusters on exposed areas like the ankles, arms, and neck.
Once the body’s immune system reacts, the bite site transforms. The immediate area often becomes a small, flat red spot or a raised welt (papule), which can sometimes resemble a small blister. Unlike single, puffy mosquito bites, midge bites may start as small, flat red patches before significant swelling begins. In sensitive individuals, the reaction can be severe, causing red, swollen areas several centimeters in diameter. The characteristic clustering pattern of these small, irritated spots is the most reliable way to visually identify midge bites.
Common Symptoms and Duration
The most distinguishing symptom of a midge bite is the intense, disproportionate itching, which results from the body’s allergic response to the midge’s saliva. The sensation can sometimes be delayed, meaning a person might not notice they have been bitten until hours later when the itching suddenly begins or intensifies.
The initial sharp, burning sensation at the time of the bite fades quickly, replaced by the persistent urge to scratch. Localized symptoms include intense itch, redness, swelling, and irritation around the bite site. For sensitive individuals, small fluid-filled blisters may form on the skin. Symptoms usually last for several days, but may persist for a week or longer in severe cases. Repeated scratching breaks the skin, significantly increasing the risk of secondary bacterial infection.
Immediate Relief and Home Treatment
Managing midge bites focuses primarily on relieving intense itching and reducing inflammation to prevent secondary infection. An immediate step is to wash the affected area with mild soap and water to clean the skin and reduce the chance of bacteria. Applying a cold compress or an ice pack wrapped in a cloth helps numb the area, providing quick relief from swelling and itching.
For over-the-counter treatment, topical anti-itch options are effective. Applying hydrocortisone cream reduces inflammation, while calamine lotion soothes the skin and curbs itching. Oral antihistamines block the histamine release causing the allergic reaction, offering systemic relief from widespread itching and swelling. Avoid scratching the bites, as this can lead to open sores and potential cellulitis. Medical advice should be sought if swelling is severe, if signs of infection like increasing warmth or pus appear, or if there is any indication of a severe allergic reaction.