A 31-year-old female asked:

I got bit by something on my foot is swelling, itchy and red. how can i figure out what bit me?

2 doctor answers2 doctors weighed in
Dr. Robert Killian
General Practice 30 years experience
Wrong Question: It does not matter what bit you. What matters is if this swelling red lesion is an infection, abscess, or something much more dangerous than just a bite. Swelling makes me believe you need medical attention urgently. Don't you think?
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
Dr. Susan Arnoult
Family Medicine 27 years experience
You can't: There's no way to determine which bug bit you unless you see it. Many types of insects cause swelling, itching and redness. In terms of treatment it doesn't matter much - you just take some claritin (loratadine) or benedryl. If the swelling gets worse or pain increases then you see a doctor for possible infection.
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
Last updated Sep 28, 2016
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