Centipedes bites to human victims don't frequently happen in the United States unlike bites from other common insects such as ants, bees, wasps and hornets. But at some point, you can also become one of the most unfortunate individual that can be the next victim of a centipede bite.
Common to all centipedes is their maxillipeds (also known as their "poison claws") which is located on their head allowing them to easily bite into their prey. They actually have a very painful bite which depends on their size. Bigger-sized centipedes can really induce extremely painful bite. When bitten against other insects, their venom can immediately take effect which can immobilize and numb their prey.
What really makes centipedes a frightening creature is that they do not only go after insects but also attack anyone who might cause harm to them. Common human victims are gardeners who often find themselves getting bitten by centipedes while tending into their plants or flower beds.
So far, the good news about centipede bites is that there have been no records of deaths or major health crises about it. However, those that have the greatest risk of major health problems from an insect bite are the elderly, children and those who are allergic to insects.
There are some rare cases where you can get bitten by a centipede without you knowing what exactly bit you. It's because they are quite speedy creatures that they can ran away unnoticed. Thus, here are the following symptoms to determine a centipede bite:
1. Two Punctured Wounds
If you take a close look into the wound, you should notice two punctured wounds which is due to the insect's modified jaws. You may want to use a magnifying glass if you have poor-eyesight.
2. Extreme Pain
Once got bitten by the insect, the victim will experience a terrifying pain. The pain can be experienced for several period of hours but for some individuals, it could last for several days.
The bitten portion will turn red, numb and swell.
3. Effects of the Bite
Aside from the painful bite of the centipede, the victim will also experience the following after-effect symptoms of the bite:
a. Intense itching
b. Local tenderness
c. Headache
d. Swollen lymph
e. Dizziness
f. Nausea
g. Palpitations
h. Anxiety
i. High blood pressure
j. Local tissue damage
If you got bit by a centipede, sad to say that you really have to endure the pain but rest assured that you will be fine unless you are allergic to the bite. Anyway, here are the following steps on how to treat a centipede bite:
1. Wash the Wound
When you got bitten by a centipede, the first important step that you need to do is to wash your wound with anti-bacterial soap (such as safeguard) and clean water to prevent infection.
2. Apply a Cold Ice
To help relieve the pain, you can apply a cold ice or water into the bitten area for at least 10 minutes.
3. Seek Medical Care
If you are experiencing several symptoms (mentioned above), you are advised to seek immediate medical help.
Overall, to reduce the risk of centipede bites it is highly recommended to wear gloves when working in the garden. As for the young children, parents should keep them supervised if playing with soil to prevent them from picking up a centipede.
Common to all centipedes is their maxillipeds (also known as their "poison claws") which is located on their head allowing them to easily bite into their prey. They actually have a very painful bite which depends on their size. Bigger-sized centipedes can really induce extremely painful bite. When bitten against other insects, their venom can immediately take effect which can immobilize and numb their prey.
What really makes centipedes a frightening creature is that they do not only go after insects but also attack anyone who might cause harm to them. Common human victims are gardeners who often find themselves getting bitten by centipedes while tending into their plants or flower beds.
So far, the good news about centipede bites is that there have been no records of deaths or major health crises about it. However, those that have the greatest risk of major health problems from an insect bite are the elderly, children and those who are allergic to insects.
Symptoms of a Centipede Bite
There are some rare cases where you can get bitten by a centipede without you knowing what exactly bit you. It's because they are quite speedy creatures that they can ran away unnoticed. Thus, here are the following symptoms to determine a centipede bite:
1. Two Punctured Wounds
If you take a close look into the wound, you should notice two punctured wounds which is due to the insect's modified jaws. You may want to use a magnifying glass if you have poor-eyesight.
2. Extreme Pain
Once got bitten by the insect, the victim will experience a terrifying pain. The pain can be experienced for several period of hours but for some individuals, it could last for several days.
The bitten portion will turn red, numb and swell.
3. Effects of the Bite
Aside from the painful bite of the centipede, the victim will also experience the following after-effect symptoms of the bite:
a. Intense itching
b. Local tenderness
c. Headache
d. Swollen lymph
e. Dizziness
f. Nausea
g. Palpitations
h. Anxiety
i. High blood pressure
j. Local tissue damage
Treating a Centipede Bite
If you got bit by a centipede, sad to say that you really have to endure the pain but rest assured that you will be fine unless you are allergic to the bite. Anyway, here are the following steps on how to treat a centipede bite:
1. Wash the Wound
When you got bitten by a centipede, the first important step that you need to do is to wash your wound with anti-bacterial soap (such as safeguard) and clean water to prevent infection.
2. Apply a Cold Ice
To help relieve the pain, you can apply a cold ice or water into the bitten area for at least 10 minutes.
3. Seek Medical Care
If you are experiencing several symptoms (mentioned above), you are advised to seek immediate medical help.
Overall, to reduce the risk of centipede bites it is highly recommended to wear gloves when working in the garden. As for the young children, parents should keep them supervised if playing with soil to prevent them from picking up a centipede.
