It's bug-bite season in northwestern Pennsylvania. There are simple ways to protect yourself
When summer rolls into northwestern Pennsylvania, we've arrived at bug-bite season.
Of course, there are home-based ideas on how to prevent bug bites. They run from chewing on a lot of garlic to avoiding beer. Others claim that not taking a shower for a week or more works. Taking high doses of vitamin B and avoiding sugar before going out in nature are also suggested as ways to help bite back against bug bites.
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Working in your yard is a perfect place to try some viable solutions to the problem. It might be possible to find ways to avoid the bugs before going for a walk or visiting a park, or fishing at your favorite pond or Lake Erie. You might try essential oils at home before you venture out to any of the above.
There are sprays and lotions that are not expensive, but one problem with both is the instructions state they should be applied every 60 minutes. One is citronella, the other is lemon eucalyptus. Both claim to repel insects, but sometimes there can be allergic reactions to these preparations. Both seem to be ineffective against bees, ticks, hornets and wasps. Commercial insect repellents have a mixed reputation and may or may not do a respectable job.
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Clothing is the best bug repellent. When you are out in nature, wearing long pants and shirts with long sleeves will save you from being bitten quite well. This works especially well against mosquitoes, ticks, bees and spiders. Avoiding extremely shady areas like bushes, your garden or that wonderful picnic table under a tree near the beach can lessen the chance to get bitten.
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If a summer insect bites you, remember that most bites and stings are mild and can be treated at home. There are over-the-counter medicines, like Dermolpast, Sting Kill, Gold Bond Lidocaine and Bug Bite Balm, that might be helpful.
Sometimes a bite or sting can have serious consequences including trouble breathing; swelling of lips, face, eyelids, or throat; rapid pulse; hives; or nausea, vomiting or diarrhea. If any of the above happens, call 911 or seek immediate medical attention. Spider bites carry a greater risk of infection than other insect bites, and you should seek medical attention if bitten. A doctor will apply a tincture directly to the bites. If you feel any serious reactions from an insect or spider, call a doctor or go to a healthcare provider.
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Play it safe this summer, watch where you go, and wear long sleeves and long pants to protect you when you decide to wander off the beaten path.
See you at the park!
Gene Ware is the author of 10 books. He serves on the board of the Presque Isle Light Station and is past chairman of the boards of the Tom Ridge Center Foundation and the Presque Isle Partnership. Email him at ware906@gmail.com.
This article originally appeared on Erie Times-News: Mosquitoes, ticks, bees: How to avoid bug bites this summer
