Stings and bites from insects are common. They often result in redness and swelling in the injured area. Sometimes a sting can cause a life-threatening allergic reaction.
Arthropods are insects that live primarily on land and have 6 legs. They dominate the present-day land fauna. They represent about three fourths of known animal life. In fact, the actual number of living species could range from 5-10 million.
If a bite becomes red, swollen and painful, and this doesn't go within a day or so, it might be infected. Flu like symptoms or swollen glands could indicate a general infection from the bite. You should seek medical advice if the bite seems to be infected and is getting worse.
The orders that contain the greatest numbers of species are Coleoptera (beetles), Lepidoptera (butterflies and moths), Hymenoptera (ants, bees, wasps), and Diptera (true flies).
Insect bites often cause one or more red bumps that are usually itchy and sometimes painful. Often there is a small hole in the middle of the bite, perhaps with the end of the sting sticking out. Apart from this local irritation, the bite is not usually dangerous provided the victim is not allergic to insect bites.
