Expert Advice on Dealing With Bug Bites on the Eyelid
Medically reviewed by Andrew Greenberg, MDMedically reviewed by Andrew Greenberg, MD
Bug bites on the eyelids can be an annoying occurrence that causes a range of symptoms. Some people may experience swelling, redness, and discomfort. Treatments like washing the bite and applying a cold compress can help reduce these symptoms.
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Types of Bug Bites on the Eyelid
A bug bite anywhere on the body can be uncomfortable. But when it occurs on the sensitive skin of the eyelid it can be even more bothersome. There are many types of bugs that sting and bite. The most common ones that cause bites on the eyelid are mosquitoes. Others include spiders and bed bugs. Below are details about each type of bug bite.
Spider Bites on the Eyelid
A spider bite on the eyelid causes symptoms similar to bites on the other areas of the body. The eyelid may swell up and become reddened. Other symptoms of a spider bite on the eyelid can include:
Bite marks
Itching
Tearing
While most spider bites are not serious, two types of spiders found in the United States that are dangerous are the brown recluse spider and the black widow. These spiders are found in warmer climates. If you think you have been bitten by one of these two spiders, seek medical attention immediately.
Mosquito Bites on the Eyelid
Bug bites on the eyelid are usually from mosquitos. They tend to live near water because mosquito offspring live in still water. A mosquito bite on the eyelid can look like any other type of bug bite.
Other Bug Bites on the Eyelid
A bug bite on the eyelid can be caused by almost any type of bug. Another bug known to cause bug bites on the eyelid are bedbugs. A case report from 2014 described how six patients reported bedbug bites on their body and five of the six had bites on their eyelids.
Common Symptoms of Bug Bites on the Eyelid
When a bug bites the eyelid it can cause an intense reaction because the skin is sensitive and thin. A clue that a swollen eyelid is from a bug bite is that only one eye is affected. If both eyes are affected, the irritation is more likely from pollen or another cause.
The common symptoms of bug bites on the eyelid include:
How Bug Bites on the Eyelid Are Treated
Bug bites on the eyelid can usually be treated at home. Some steps to take to reduce symptoms include:
Wash the affected area with soap and water.
Apply a cool compress to the eyelid.
Take medication for pain like Advil or Motrin (ibuprofen) or Tylenol (acetaminophen).
Take an antihistamine to help control itching.
If symptoms do not improve or if they worsen, contact a healthcare provider.
When Bug Bites on the Eyelid Become Emergencies
A bug bite on the eyelid can cause serious symptoms that require immediate medical attention. Here is when you should seek immediate medical care:
Both eyelids are swollen shut.
One eyelid is swollen shut and is accompanied by a fever.
Vision changes or vision loss occurs.
You are feeling very sick.
Bug bites anywhere on the body can cause an anaphylactic reaction (sudden, severe allergic reaction) in certain people. Someone who thinks they are having a serious allergic reaction should call 911 immediately.
How to Prevent Bug Bites on the Eyelid
One of the first steps in preventing bug bites on the eyelid is to avoid areas that have insects. When that isn't possible, try wearing protective clothing like long sleeves and pants.
Another way to prevent bug bites is to apply insect repellent. Look for insect repellents that are Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)-registered and contain the following ingredients:
Diethyltoluamide (DEET)
Picaridin
IR3535
Oil of lemon eucalyptus (OLE)
Para-menthane-diol (PMD)
2-undecanone
When using both sunscreen and insect repellent, make sure to apply the sunscreen first then the insect repellent.
Mosquito nets should be used when sleeping outside or are otherwise open to the elements. Look for nets with 156 holes per square inch that are white (making bugs easier to see) and can fit over the bed. Some mosquito nets are treated with permethrin, which provides more protection.
When to Contact a Healthcare Provider
Bug bites can cause serious complications if not treated appropriately. Anytime a bug bite worsens or does not get better it is time to contact a healthcare provider. Other circumstances that would warrant a healthcare provider visit include:
Eyelid becomes red or painful
Fever
Swelling that lasts more than three days
Unexplained swelling
Summary
Bug bites on the eyelid can cause swelling, redness, and pain. They tend to affect just one eye and usually resolve on their own. However, if symptoms worsen or do not get better on their own then it's time to contact a healthcare provider.
Read the original article on Verywell Health.
